A driver’s license offers individuals a unique brand of freedom. Many people have spent the majority of their lives with the ability to drive a vehicle. The possession of a license is a large part of independence, independent living, self-sufficiency, spontaneity, and involvement in social and religious activities. It’s little wonder that the loss of a driver’s license can be especially difficult for some seniors. Relinquishing a driver’s license doesn’t mean an older adult has to give up any of these freedoms - adjustments will just have to be made.
If a concerned family member has intervened in the decision for a senior to give up their license, personal relationships can be compromised. Seniors may feel angry or resentful toward the family member. They may feel embarrassed or be in disbelief. All of these reactions are understandable. Again, this can be a very difficult life change.
There are several factors that may make driving safely more difficult or even unsafe all together for elders. Declining vision, hearing deficits, acute coronary syndrome, limited mobility, increased reaction time, medications, drowsiness, or dementia are a few of these factors. Agenet.com reports that by age 60, individuals need three times the amount of light they needed at age 20 in order to drive safely at night. Approximately one-third of adults 65 and older have impaired hearing. Hearing is vital to noticing cues while driving such as other vehicles honking, children playing, or emergency sirens.
There are positive ways to cope with no longer driving. Like any change, it may be difficult at first, but giving up a driver’s license doesn’t mean seniors have to give up visiting friends, attending church, or shopping. There are modifications that need to be made and actually benefits associated with no longer driving. Turning in a driver’s license will eliminate the need for maintenance, insuring, and licensing of a vehicle. This will save a significant amount of money. Gas prices skyrocketing to $4.00 per gallon in America won’t be nearly as disturbing to seniors who have decided to stop driving.
It will be important to research alternatives for transportation in the area. Determine schedules, costs, and routes. Contact local senior centers and councils on aging for resources. Use the Internet for shopping when possible. It may be necessary to find service providers such as pharmacies and grocery stores that offer delivery services . Seniors will want to plan their schedule ahead of time so arrangements can be made to secure transportation for appointments and other outings. Don’t forget to plan for fun outside of the home such as visiting with friends and attending social activities. Family and friends will likely be happy to help with transportation when enough notice is given so they can also plan ahead. Don’t hesitate to reach out and connect with new people. It may be possible to ride with a neighbor to the grocery store when they’re already going. There may be places within walking distance that seniors never really even noticed. Walking is excellent exercise, so consider getting some fresh air while walking to the store to pick up bread or eggs.
There’s no doubt that change is difficult, but as Henri Bergson observed, “To exist is to change, to change is to mature, to mature is to go on creating oneself endlessly.” There are many ways to continue living a rich and active life despite the changes associated with aging. Maintaining a positive attitude in the face of change will go a long way in coping with change.
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