Should I help my dad reinstate his driving privileges?

Lips asked...

Even though my Dad has said he wants to go through the process to have his driving privileges reinstated, each time he says, "they won't let me drive anymore", he seems less upset about it. Should I cooperate and take him through the process or just let sleeping dogs lie. I can't imagine going through another revocation if he were to regain his privileges (which I highly doubt).

Expert Answer

Laura Juel is an occupational therapist at Duke University Medical Center in Durham, North Carolina. She works in the Outpatient Occupational Therapy Program and the Duke Driving Program for older drivers.

It sounds like your dad is grieving about his inability to drive. He probably feels a loss of his independence but on the other hand, down deep, he may acknowledge that he has some issues that may preclude him from safely driving. I would let your dad take the lead if he wants to reinstate his driving privileges. This will take some coordination on his part- phone calls and transportation. You can discuss this with him or have him make a pros and cons list for driving; including cost/maintenance. Often times my older clients need to try every possible avenue related to driving, even if other family members do not feel that the outcome of driving is realistic.