Driving Alternatives, and Benefits of Not Driving, for Seniors

 

 

Driving Alternatives, and Benefits of Not Driving, for Seniors

On Monday, we gave you a few tips on how to determine when your aging loved one is no longer fit to drive.

As statistics show, there are many older adults involved in motor vehicle accidents; according to the CDC, a daily average of 15 were killed and 500 injured in crashes in 2008 alone.

However, asking your parent to give up the independence that comes with driving can be extremely difficult for both you and them. So, to make things much easier, we’re going to give you several driving alternatives as well as the benefits of not driving. Take a look below:

Driving alternatives

There are a wide variety of transportation alternatives that will allow your loved one to maintain their independence even if they can’t drive. Below, we’ve outlined just a few:

  • Public transportation. Most major cities have an extensive public transportation system that allows people to get around with little to no trouble at all, such as the train/rail system or bus system. In addition, public transportation costs for seniors are usually reduced, making it a great alternative for your wallet as well.
  • Carpooling. Your loved one may also consider carpooling. This is a great way to keep in touch with friends, family and neighbors who are more than willing to lend a helping hand and some good company.
  • Shuttle service. Shuttle services may also be available in local communities, especially among senior-friendly places, such as senior homes, doctor’s offices, place of worship, or community centers.
  • Taxis/private drivers. Taxis are often fast and convenient and can offer your loved one privacy, unlike other alternatives. You may also hire a professional chauffeur who is scheduled to take your loved one around during the day allowing for consistency and a personal touch.
  • Walking/cycling. If your loved one lives in an area that is short distance to where they need to go (e.g. grocery store, community center, place of worship), they may also consider walking or cycling, which is a great and healthy alternative to driving. Just make sure to consult your parent’s doctor to make sure they are fit enough to go such a distance.

Benefits of not driving

Reduced expenses. Depending on how often your loved one drives, trading in your car can help to reduce a number of monthly expenses, such as insurance, gasoline, car payments, up-keep, storage fees, etc.

Exercising instead of driving. As we mentioned above, trading in your loved ones wheels can help motivate them to exercise, which is a great way to improve their health mentally and physically, maintain their independence, and give them a chance to enjoy the outdoors.

Check back on Friday when we wrap up series with a post on how to approach your parents about no longer driving. And, as always, if you have any questions or concerns regarding your loved one, please feel free to give us a call. We’d love to help you.

Physicians’ Choice Private Duty Assisted Living “currently serving Omaha, Eastern Nebraska and Western Iowa “provides seniors and their families a complete understanding of geriatric care options and helps families maneuver through the challenges of the system. Get your free Cost Comparison guide by clicking here. Or contact us for a free consultation or just to say hello!

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“Physicians’ Choice Private Duty Assisted Living solves the challenges families face in caring for aging parents, with a focus on strategies that keep them in their homes. To learn more about our solutions, visit http://www.private-duty.pchhc.com.”