6 Ways You Can Help Someone Stop Driving
Stop Driving: Page 2
Wherever older adults are on the driving continuum -- whether they're still driving, driving with restrictions, or must give up driving altogether -- you can play a valuable role. Your caring, active participation in their lives will reassure them that ceasing to drive doesn't have to sentence them to isolation and boredom.
Make it a habit to check in on them often, just to chat or share some news.
Offer to drive them to the activities they enjoy -- or help find someone else who can take them.
See that they're included in family outings, like their grandchildren's school events or a day at the beach.
Encourage them to try taking the bus on their next trip to the pharmacy, or to walk, if it isn't too far away, and offer to go with them if you can.
Urge them to ask for rides from friends, and to reciprocate in whatever way they can (preparing a meal, for example).
Help them develop new routines and interests that don't require driving, like gardening, walking, or swimming at the local pool.
Your support and involvement in their lives will make giving up the car a far less lonely and frightening prospect.
