Avoid feeling alone, isolated, or incapable
Summary Loneliness, isolation, and feeling incapable or helpless are problems for many caregivers and are major elements of caregiver stress syndrome. This article explains the negative effects of these feelings and then offers ways to avoid feeling alone, isolated, or incapable. Caregiver stress syndrome The toll taken by caregiving has a name: caregiver stress syndrome. […]
Anticipate and manage impacts on your personal life
Summary Being a caregiver can affect every aspect of a person’s life. This article lists some of the most common physical and emotional impacts that a caregiver can expect to experience. It then briefly suggests some effective ways of managing these impacts. Anticipating and managing the impacts of caregiving Being a caregiver can affect every […]
Unsafe driving warning signs
Summary As seniors age, it can be difficult to tell when driving habits stray into dangerous territory. Changes in driving skill can have several causes, including cognitive and physical changes from age or injury, and drug interactions. This article discusses what to look for when it comes to seniors and driving and then describes some […]
Reviewing driving regulations and legal risks
Summary Driving at an advanced age brings a host of challenges, including potentially higher insurance rates, more monitoring by state licensing boards, and legal risks. This article outlines some of the legal and financial regulations to consider when advising an older driver. Each state has different regulations, so make sure to check with the appropriate […]
Physically limiting vehicle access for unsafe drivers
Summary Sometimes a conversation or three isn’t enough to convince an unsafe driver to hang up the keys. For whatever reason—cognitive impairment, fear of losing independence, or even sheer stubbornness—an unsafe driver has refused to stop driving and it has become necessary to physically limit access to motor vehicles. This article shares some tips for […]
Modifying driving habits of older adults
Summary Many people find their driving habits changing naturally as they get older. While older drivers may become more cautious and less likely to text or drink and drive, aging can also mean that drivers need a little extra help. This article provides some helpful tips for evaluating a driver’s baseline physical and mental capabilities […]
Getting help with an unsafe driver
Summary You’ve tried reasoning, you’ve tried begging. You’ve had the conversation several times before, and yet an unsafe older driver still insists on taking the car out. This article outlines ways to get help and how to enlist others to prevent dangerous driving. When is it time to get help? It’s safe to say that […]
Factors that contribute to unsafe driving
Summary Older drivers have several circumstances that can lead to unsafe driving. These factors can seem to appear very suddenly, or may emerge gradually over a few years. Both physical and mental changes can lead to unsafe driving. This article lists some of the most common causes for unsafe driving in older adults. Physical changes […]
Discussing driving with an older adult
Summary As we get older, our driving can be affected. Some seniors might not realize that their driving skills have changed over time. And letting go of the freedom to drive can be a scary idea for many. They may see it as a loss of independence or as insultingto their abilities. Having a plan […]
Curtailing unsafe driving habits
Summary Age is not the only factor for unsafe driving; in fact, many drivers remain safe and free from traffic accidents all their lives. Older drivers can, though, experience some decline in driving abilities as they age. Many drivers fear the loss of independence that comes with driving. This article demonstrates how to work with […]