Changes in hearing, reflexes, and vision impact the ability to safely drive as you get over the age of 65. You should monitor your dad’s driving skills and be ready to pull his keys away when his reaction times decline.

Here are seven things to monitor when your dad is driving. Join him in the car and watch for these red flags.

1. He Forgets Simple Safety Measures Before Setting Off . Before your dad even moves the car, he should make sure the seat is adjusted to the proper position for his needs. He must have his seat belt on. He should also check his mirrors to make sure they’re positioned correct.
2. He Forgets to Use Signals. Signals are essential when turning onto a new road, taking an exit, or switching lanes. Does your dad always use his signals? If he doesn’t when he’s the only car on the road, it may not be as concerning if he’s forgetting when he’s in busy traffic.
3. He’s Driving Too Slowly. On a busy highway, driving well under the speed limit is just as dangerous as speeding. Does he maintain speeds that either match the speed limit or are not too far under? Of course on icy or snowy roads, slower speeds are essential.
4. He’s Easily Sidetracked. Does your dad lose focus while driving? Does he start looking for too long at his dashboard or a car or object on the side of the road? That habit can be dangerous.
5. He Never Checks Mirrors. When moving into another lane, your dad should rely on mirrors and a check of his blind spots. If he never looks in his mirrors, it’s a problem.
6. He Can’t Turn His Head to the Side. Being able to check his blind spots is crucial when driving. If your dad cannot turn his head without dealing with neck pain, he’ll struggle to see all of his blind spot. He must be able to look over both shoulders with ease.
7. He Struggles to Move His Foot From One Pedal to the Other. If your dad has to pull at his pant leg to move his foot from the accelerator to the brake or vice versa, he should not be driving. He needs to have the muscle power to do this without assistance from his hand and arm.

Your dad will likely be upset with your decision, but it’s important for his safety. He doesn’t have to give up his freedom. Call an elderly care service and arrange transportation services for your dad. With an elderly care professional driving him to stores, medical offices, and other locations, he will have his freedom without risking his safety.

The staff at Home Care Matters is available to talk with you and your family about all of your needs. Home Care Matters is a home care agency providing quality and affordable elderly care in Lawrenceville, GA and the surrounding areas. Call (678) 828-2195 for more information.

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Valerie Darling

Founder, Owner at Home Care Matters

Valerie was born in Miami, FL and after a few family moves, grew up locally in the Marietta, GA area.Valerie is the oldest of 4 (3 younger brothers).She is married and has one child.Valerie is the Founder, Owner and CEO of Home Care Matters.Valerie’s mom, Dee, is the inspiration and primary driver as the how and why the business was born.Valerie says, “My mom is never far from our thoughts.Mom was an integral part of developing and starting HCM before she passed away.Our goal is to stay true to her memory and continue to honor her with the love, values, and ethics she taught us.”

Valerie has the unique experience with home care as she has experienced it from both ends of the spectrum, as a caregiver and as needing care herself as a cancer survivor. Valerie says, “Taking care of someone you love is a physically, mentally and demanding labor of love.Taking care of my mom was the hardest thing I have ever done. It has given me an insight and perspective not many people understand unless you are doing it or have done it.I loved taking care of my mom.I love helping others take care of their love ones too.And now that I’ve been sick, it’s given me a whole new level of empathy and understanding for those who are sick and need help.”

Valerie’s schedule varies daily, but she loves visiting with our clients, families, caregivers, our network partners and being in the office.Says Valerie, “Every day is different, but I wake up excited about what we do, inspired by our team, clients and caregivers.I strive to be a resource to the community.I love my team and I love what we do every day. I like to think my mom would be proud.”

You can reach Valerie by email (Valerie@homecarematters.com) or in our office (770.965.4004).

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