How to Talk to Elderly Adults About Giving up the Keys
If you have concerns about an older adult's ability to drive, addressing them promptly could be a matter of life and death. It may be tempting to procrastinate—to talk to him next week or before the first snowfall, for example—but think how you'd feel if the delay led to an automobile accident that resulted in a serious injury or death.
Considering the possible consequences should help you overcome your hesitation, but that doesn't mean it will be easy. It's awkward and painful to have to inform older adults that they aren't capable of doing something as basic and essential as driving a car. For them, it's another humiliating reminder of their growing inability to take care of themselves and manage the tasks of daily life.
As difficult as it is, if you have reason to believe that the person in your care could be dangerous behind the wheel, it's important to deal with the issue sooner rather than later— because later could be too late.
Seniors enrolled at any of the city operated Senior Centers and live within a five-mile radius of the center may qualify for morning pick-up and afternoon drop-off to and from the senior center. Seniors can check at their center site for availability of this service. The service is free, however donations are encouraged.
*For more information on Senior Center Transportation please call (210)207-7172.
Bexar County Senior Medical Appointment Transportation Agencies
Presa Transportation Collaborative (210)532-5554
Southwest Community Outreach for Older People (SWOOP) (210)558-0007
Southeast Community Outreach for Older People (SCOOP) (210)359-6678
Jefferson Outreach for Older People (210)734-5016
North East Senior Assistance (NESA) (210)967-6372
*For information on Medical Appointment Transportation please call the Alamo Service Connection at (210)477-3275.
Book of the Month: Chicken Soup for the Soul Living with Alzheimer's & Other Dementias
Are you living with or caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia? You are not alone—this book has 101 inspiring stories by others like you.
All royalties from Chicken Soup for the Soul: Living with Alzheimer’s & Other Dementias go to the Alzheimer’s Association.
Chapters cover a wide range of experiences, including:
• Accepting a New Reality
• What Does it Feel Like?
• Next Steps and Tough Choices
• Taking the Journey with Your Parent
• Younger-Onset Alzheimer’s
Trudie Hughes retired from running a quilt shop eight years ago, but still works ten hours a day, seven days a week.
Instead of selling quilts, she makes two a day, about 60 each month—each one unique. The fabric is donated by friends or she buys it herself.
The finished products are donated to the La Causa Crisis Nursery in Milwaukee, a shelter for babies and children who's families need urgent child care.
