Taking the Car Away From an Elderly Parent
Taking the Car Away From an Elderly Parent
Talking to an elderly parent about giving up the car keys can be very traumatic for both the parent and the adult child. Parents see losing their ability to drive as losing their independence and adult children wonder if they are doing the right thing. They also worry about how the conversation will go.
Many parents become depressed or combative when they are faced with the prospect of no longer driving. The way a child broaches the subject can make a huge difference in how a parent reacts.
Most articles on this subject talk about the dangers of elderly driving and how a family must be firm about taking the keys away. Some examples are below:
Good advice on what can be done if an elderly driver won’t give up the keys.
Taking the Keys: What To Do If Mom or Dad Won’t Give Them Up
Straightforward assessment of driving laws and how these laws impact older drivers.
An article about just how sensitive the issue of driving is for older parents.
Surprising Finding: The Hardest Conversation To Have With Aging Parents
Thoughtful article on how to gently approach a parent who should no longer drive.
How to Talk to Elderly Adults About Giving up the Keys