Winter is often a time filled with family gatherings, holiday activities, and friendly get-togethers. The harsh Upper Peninsula winters can make traveling to these events and completing everyday errands dangerous. It can be especially difficult for those who are no longer confident driving in the winter. As we age, our eyesight, hearing, and reaction times deteriorate, which can make driving safely more difficult, especially when winter storms lead to poor road conditions and decreased visibility. Winter driving in the Upper Peninsula requires high levels of attention, care, and skill.
Changes in Your Loved One’s Everyday Behavior
Sometimes, Seniors themselves will admit to increased nervousness or difficulty with driving. However, if they don’t, some changes to their behavior can indicate it’s time for your loved one to stop driving. Forgetfulness, lack of agility, and issues with comprehension may all indicate your loved one shouldn’t be driving.
When driving skills begin to deteriorate, people may feel a sense of loss of independence. Some people try to keep their difficulties a secret as long as possible, while some may be unaware of their changing driving behavior. It is important to be aware of the signs that could indicate your or your loved one’s driving is becoming unsafe. Here are some of the most common:
- Forgetfulness or confusion
- Failing to follow rules of the road
- Difficulty seeing road signs or knowing where they are going
- Aggressive driving or use of bad judgment on the road
- Driving far below the speed limit
What to Do If Your Loved One Needs Help Driving
The idea of giving up driving can be a stress for any Senior, so start any conversation with patience. The hazards of winter driving may be a way to begin a conversation about not driving. Start with a discussion about the challenge of winter driving. Explain how they can rely on you or Marquette Home Care for transportation and errands. Once they realize they don’t have to lose their independence, they may be more inclined to give up the keys. Even if your loved one is still capable of driving, having a companion drive may make them more willing to stop driving when the time comes.
Keep in mind that your loved one isn’t worried about not driving as much as they are worried about missing their events. Explain that they can still meet their friends for cribbage and bingo and will always have a way to and from the bank, church, or the doctor’s office.
Call Marquette Home Care Today
If you’re concerned about your loved one driving, whether it’s in winter or summer, call our office. Marquette Home Care provides transportation services and helps clients run errands, so they can continue to safely enjoy their winter routine without the stress that comes with winter driving. With help from MHC, your loved one doesn’t have to feel isolated or like they’ve lost their independence.
Let our team at MHC take the wheel this winter. Keep your loved one safe and happy with our help. We help clients across the Marquette area, including Negaunee, Ishpeming, Harvey, Skandia, and Gwinn. Call us for more information at 906-361-8022.
