How to Take Away the Car Keys from an Aging Parent

Because driving often is considered to be the last sign of independence to an aging adult, it can be a difficult task to convince them to stop driving. The problem is that many older individuals continue to drive even after they realize they are less than capable. In most states it is up to the individual's family to take away the keys.

Things You'll Need

• Physician's advice

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Instructions

• 1

  Take a ride in the car with your parent driving. This will give you an opportunity to assess your parent's current driving skills without making him or her feel on the spot. Watch closely for signs of confusion or uncertainty in heavy traffic situations. Determine whether your parent's reaction time has slowed.

• 2

  If your parent seems to get lost frequently when driving, this may be an early sign of dementia. Other obvious signs such as forgetfulness and difficulty understanding or carrying out simple directions are genuine reasons to accompany your parent to a doctor's appointment. Failing vision, problems with hearing, deteriorating motor skills and prescription drug use are all factors that can contribute to poor driving.

• 3

  Suggest that your parent re-take a driver's test. Few states currently require older drivers to pass road tests before renewing their licenses. By talking honestly with your parent, he or she likely will understand your concern for safety on the road. It can make things a bit easier to involve the parent in the decision to stop driving.

• 4

  If you seem to be making little progress, ask your parent to seek the advice of his or her family physician, other family members or trusted friends. Should that tactic fail as well, you might want to contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles and report your concerns. Regulations may vary from state to state; however, depending on your parent's specific disabilities, the state may revoke the license, at least temporarily.

• 5

  When all else fails, remove access to the car. This never is an easy thing to do, but could save lives in the end, including your parent's.