Finding the perfect gift for older loved ones can be difficult. Instead of store-bought gifts and sweet treats galore, give your loved ones a gift that will impact their lives for the better. Give the gift of traffic safety.
The gift of traffic safety comes in several forms, starting with working with the older drivers in your life to have a frank and productive conversation (or several conversations) about their transportation future. The best way to broach the topic is to start from a calm, fact-based perspective. The conversation should include information on vehicle safety features, alternative transportation in your community, and, perhaps a lesson about using ride-share apps.
The ChORUS Transportation Planning Tool offers a great way to get started in helping your older loved one remain safe. This online planning tool walks you through the steps for improving older driver safety and remaining active in your community whether driving or not. Some of the next steps this planning tool might identify include:
- Assess Your Driving Safety.
You can use one of the online screenings listed on the ChORUS website to work with an older driver to determine the best actions that are needed. There are also several organizations that can help older drivers find professionals and community volunteers to learn about safety. CarFit, created by AOTA, AAA, and AARP, is a program where volunteers help you find the right ergonomic setup or “fit” for your car and learn about the safety features of your car. ADED provides a website where you can find a driver rehabilitation specialist, who can provide a professional assessment and provide the older driver suggestions for changing their driving habits, adding adaptive or assistive technology to a car, and other adjustments when driving.
- Change Your Driving Habits.
As you age, you may recognize changes in your health, including vision and hearing. Self-regulate your habits by not driving at night and not driving in inclement weather. Other changes you can make may include only driving during non-peak hours and avoiding highways.
- Talk with a Medical Professional.
Be sure to talk with your healthcare provider about the impacts a diagnosis or medication change might have on safe driving. With every new diagnosis or medication, have a conversation with your medical professional about how they will affect driving.
- Plan to Re-Assess to Remain Safe.
It is important to revisit your transportation plan to see if there are any changes you should make at a later date to remain safe. ChORUS recommends an annual review similar to your annual check-up. Add the re-assessment to your calendar so you won’t forget.
The gift of traffic safety is a present for the older driver in your life, your community, and for you. ChORUS updates resources on a regular basis, so return to the website, and follow us on our Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay up-to-date on road user safety tools and tips. Traffic safety isn’t just a gift for holiday time, it’s one that lasts all year.