When it’s time
Pa. ranks high for accidents involving seniors, but ‘taking-the-keys’ conversation is emotional
For Americans, there is no greater expression of independence than driving.
The moment we get our license to drive is the moment our freedom is actualized. We can go where we want when we want. The ability to drive is not only an expression of freedom but is essential to the lifestyles of millions of Americans.
There’s no wonder why the conversation surrounding “taking the keys” is one that elicits so much contention.
The reality is that Pennsylvania ranks very high for accidents involving drivers older than 65. But does that mean seniors should lose their right to drive? Is there a point in one’s life when they must hang up the keys for good? Many care providers and driving professionals say no.
Cheryl Anderson, Well By Design Director at The Heritage of Green Hills, Cumru Township, said: “Over 70% of the independent living residents at The Heritage of Green Hills still drive.”
Anderson attributes that statistic to the vibrant, active environment that keeps residents healthy and strong. The Heritage of Green Hills also offers educational programs for residents to help them stay safe on the road, including the AAA course “Driving for Mature Adults” and a “Drive Sharp Course.” Stay behind wheel Continuing education certainly seems to be one of the best ways seniors can confidently stay behind the wheel, and the owner of Brandt’s Driving School, headquartered in Johnstown, Cambria County, with operations in the greater Berks region, agrees.
Timothy Brandt has more than 30 years of experience teaching and evaluating drivers of all different ages and capabilities. He believes all drivers are unique, including all senior drivers.
“Age has nothing to do with it,” Brandt said. “Many people remain healthy well into their 90s. Age is just a number.”
This claim seems to hold some truth. Last month, TV’s “Inside Edition” uploaded a video to its YouTube account showing the world 107-year-old Joe Newman, who is still driving. Newman has been driving for 90 years, and he shows no signs of stopping aside from at red lights and stop signs.
How can seniors who’ve lost some ability get back on the road confidently? The answer is rehabilitation. Stay on road Brandt is one of the 16 certified driver rehabilitation specialists in the state. While he does accept that some cognitive issues may lead to a loss of ability, he champions the idea that all drivers should get a chance to stay on the road.
Before a behind-thewheel driving evaluation takes place, there are a number of cognitive tests to check older drivers’ reaction times, memory and other abilities. But Brandt believes the true test is a road test.
“For me not to let them in the car is a disservice,” he said. “No matter how well you do on the cognitive test, I’ll get you on the road.”
Like any test, practice must come first if there is going to be any success. Brandt and his team provide seniors with training. This training is essential, he said, because it might illuminate the source of any issues behind the wheel.
“Physically, people change,” Brandt said. “There could be issues with vision, strength or neck rotation.”
Once instructors pinpoint an issue, they can take the necessary steps to fix it. This may include hand controls, spinner knobs and even voice-activated assistance.
Yet the fact remains that our state ranks high for accidents involving drivers over the age of 65.
While all the professionals agreed that the first step is training and evaluation, they also arrived at the same conclusion: there comes a time when some drivers must hang up the keys for good.
‘Ease into it’ Wendy Kershner, territory manager for Comfort Keepers, West Lawn, said when that time comes, she said, “it’s best to ease into it.”
Kershner accepts that this will never be an easy topic to discuss with loved ones, but she feels strongly that it’s a matter of safety not only for the driver but for everyone else on the road.
Kershner said loved ones must follow their guts in broaching the topic.
“You have to ask yourself: ‘Would you be comfortable putting your grandchildren in the car with them?’” she said.
Driver’s doctor Both Kershner and Brandt agree that the best way to approach the issue is through the driver’s doctor.
“People trust their doctors,” Brandt said. “They respect what they have to say.”
As difficult as it may be to approach this topic, it’s one that must be tackled. If you’re finding dents in the car, scratches, paint exchanges or any other damage, it may be time to talk to your loved ones. This is especially important if they’ve been diagnosed with dementia or other conditions that could affect their judgment.
Don’t let the struggling seniors in your life put themselves or others at risk. Help them understand that you’re coming from a place of love, care and concern. Approach it gently, Kershner said.
Try to give the situation a positive spin, Brand said.
Driving a car can be a job or a lifelong occupation.
He said: “You’ve had a great career, but there comes a time to retire.”