Whether to Stop Driving
ByThe decision to stop driving a vehicle should not be made based on age but on such issues as one’s health, genes, lifestyle, and sense of confidence. Since we all age differently there exists no magic number at which a driver’s license should be relinquished. Consider the following statements, and if any are applicable to you, you should consider giving up driving.
- You are frequently lost even on roads once familiar to you.
- Drivers of other vehicles often honk or gesture at you.
- You’ve recently had a fender bender or two.
- You are often surprised by the sudden appearance of other vehicles or pedestrians.
- Family members have voiced concern about your driving.
- You drive as infrequently as possible due to a lack of confidence.
Since the decision to stop driving is not an easy one, consider contacting the AARP at www.aarp.org or AAA at www.aaa.com to obtain publications to help with your assessment.
Getting Around without Your Car
Even without a car, there are still options for getting around in most communities. Contact local organizations dedicated to serving senior citizens to inquire about transportation services. There may be low-cost public transportation available to those who are 65 or older.
Religious, social or nonprofit organizations may offer transportation services to senior citizens. Keep in mind that operating a car is expensive, and without the monthly cost of fuel and maintenance, more funds may be available to you to pay for taxis or hired drivers.
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