Older Parents

Sportsaholic

Jack's Mentor
Forum Member
Jan 18, 2000
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Crustacean Nation
My Mom's 85 and was told by the Doc's not to drive about 5 months ago because of fainting spells (3rd in 3 yrs).

She called the Doc Office last week and asked to drive locally, he gave her the ok which we didnt know. She has since backed out of the garage with the door open springing the door. Today I spoke with two of her friends that had an unpleasant ride over the weekend and will not ride with her again.

Anyone here had to talk with a parent about giving up the keys?
 

VaNurse

Dirty Foot
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Mar 13, 2002
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I will probably be facing the same situation before long and I feel your frustration. Losing the independence of driving is probably one of the most difficult for someone to accept.

When my father worked in the insurance business, one of his policyholders contacted him and begged him to have his father's insurance cancelled because he could no longer safely drive and had had a couple of small unreported accidents. There was nothing my dad could do to help. As long as the gentleman had a valid driver's license and there was no official record of the accidents, his hands were tied.

Shame on your mom's doctor for conceding to her wishes when her health jeopardizes hers and others' safety. Perhaps you can reason with her from the point of view that you know she would never knowingly risk someone else's safety and reiterate the fact that most accidents occur closer to home. Good luck with what will be an emotionally challenging endeavor.
 

Woodson

L I V I N
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Oct 23, 1999
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Grandmother turned 90 last week, and I had the same discussion with my dad yesterday...

Not sure how she's going to take it...
 

THE KOD

Registered
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Nov 16, 2001
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Victory Lane
My Dad is 80 and he scares me with his driving.

Threre is new company that will come out and give the person testing at their home.

If they fail its alot easier to have them tell them they can no longer drive than a relative trying to tell them.

I saw it on 60 minutes I think.

Its been awhile ago.
 

CANADA MAN

PUCK YOU
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Apr 1, 2006
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Richmond Hill, Ontario
My dad had to give up driving at age 75 about 3 years ago due to bad eye sight. It was very difficult for him to accept, and he has not been the same person since. He hates having to rely on other people for anything so he's been kind of depressed and has never come out of it. Tough to watch sometimes. It seems like yesterday he was so young and strong and tossing me in the air.

Time goes by way too quickly!! :(
 

THE KOD

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Victory Lane
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