Age, not dementia, is to blame
It's a dilemma for aging seniors and their families: in a society where driving is key to independence, there's even more proof that as we age, ability to drive safely drops.
Dr. Rich O'Neill, psychologist at SUNY Upstate says a study of several hundred 70 to 89 year olds--with NO signs of dementia--showed that one in six made critical errors in a 12-mile road test. Failing to check blind spots, speeding, braking without cause and veering out of the lane were the most common, and the number of errors went up with increasing age. Men had just as many problems as women.
What to do?
O'Neill says step one is to get a physical and eye exam to ensure there's no easily-corrected physical problem.
Then, hire an occupational therapist who specializes in driving to evaluat skills and give training in 'weak areas'--a defensive driving refresher course might be appropriate as well (several organizations offer them, including the Safety Council, which has both on-line and classroom courses).
If a loved one does not want to stop driving, even though 'everyone' knows there's a safety issue, here are some steps:
The Department of Motor Vehicles has a pamphlet on older driver information and help.
Physicians are empowered by the state to notify DMV, and the DMV can suspend a license.
And, O'Neill points out that seniors would be less resistant to stopping driving, if there are plans in place so they can live well, without driving.
