How to Stop Elderly Parents From Driving

Donna Nichols • December 29, 2020

One of the hardest conversations to have: telling an aging loved one it’s time to stop driving 

First of all, how do you know it’s time for them to stop driving?

Let’s take a look at some of the signs.

Take a few rides with them and observe their mannerisms and reaction times.

  • Are they easily distracted while driving?
  • Are they driving too fast or too slow?
  • Are they cutting corners too sharp?
  • Are they having difficulty changing lanes?
  • Do you notice any new scrapes or dents on the vehicle?

These are some early signs that it may be time for your loved one to quit driving, but how do you tell your mom or dad they can no longer drive?

Yikes!! Here’s the hard part, right?

Just remember, they have been driving for a lifetime and giving it up means losing their independence. It doesn’t have to be so hard, just start out slowly and bring to their attention little details calmly and patiently.

I tell you to take a ride with them because you need to know the facts for yourself, don’t rely on what others tell you, they could be basing their remarks off of one circumstance.

Before you approach the subject, make sure you have an alternative plan. Research other transportation options and show them they can still get around town, to the doctor’s office, etc.

For more information about this, read our blog, Senior Transportation Options.

How to stop elderly parents from driving

There are many delivery services now who will deliver groceries and medications. Maybe one of their neighbors would take them to run errands one day a week. Check into other options before approaching the subject.

Be sympathetic, after all, you’re asking them to give up a large part of their lifestyle. Approach the subject carefully and keep your emotions under control. Your loved one may be angry or act hostile toward you, but remain calm while speaking to them about giving up driving.

They are not going to agree with you the first time you have this conversation. You may have to speak to them several times, and suggest they take a driving test or have their vision checked. Perhaps if a professional tells them they are not able to drive any longer, they will be more apt to listen.

Remind them of the consequences that could happen if they continue to drive, but speak to them calmly. Remind them someone could get seriously hurt and maybe even die if they have an accident. Also, point out that they couldn’t handle the affects of a car accident either. It’s hard enough to recover from a fall; can you imagine a car accident?

Make sure you stay on track with the conversation, don’t go off on another topic, and stick to the point of them not driving. They may try to change the subject because it is something they don’t want to hear, but stick to the subject!

So, how do you tell your aging loved one is time to stop driving? Calmly and with patience, remember you are telling them they can no longer do the one thing that gives them the last bit of freedom they have.

If you need help or encouragement as a Caregiver give us a call at  386-847-2322  or check out our  Caregiver Support Group. Our  Senior Advisors  are here to walk with you through this journey.

The Heart of Guidance: The Role of a Senior Advisor in Elder Care

By Donna Nichols • September 5, 2025
In a world that often moves too fast, senior advisors offer something rare and essential: time, understanding, and a steady hand. Unlike their counterparts in the business world, senior advisors in elder care aren’t focused on profit margins—they’re focused on people. Who They Are Senior advisors in this space are often seasoned professionals, caregivers, or community advocates who help older adults and their families navigate complex decisions. They may work in senior living communities, nonprofit organizations, healthcare systems, or independently. What They Do • Guide families through transitions: Whether it's choosing assisted living or downsizing a home, senior advisors help make sense of it all. • Advocate for dignity and autonomy: They ensure that older adults’ voices are heard and respected in every decision. • Connect to resources: From transportation and wellness programs to Alzheimer’s and grief support, they know where to turn. • Offer emotional support: Sometimes, the most valuable thing they offer is a listening ear and a calming presence. Why It Matters A senior advisor isn’t just a resource—they’re a lifeline. They help families breathe easier, empower older adults to make informed choices, and bring compassion into moments that can feel overwhelming. If you’re reading this and thinking, “That sounds like me,” you’re not alone. Many of us play this role informally, answering questions, calming nerves, and connecting dots. Whether you’re a professional advisor or a trusted neighbor, your presence makes a difference.  If you or someone you love is facing a big decision and could use a calm, caring guide—we’re here. No pressure, no jargon, just real people ready to help. Call us today on 386-847-2322 to start the conversation. Sometimes, the first step is simply knowing you’re not alone.

Grandparents Day: A Celebration of Heart, Humor & Heritage

By Donna Nichols • September 4, 2025
September brings a quiet kind of magic—the golden light, the hint of fall in the air, and a moment to honor the everyday heroes who’ve shaped our lives with love, laughter, and legendary stories: our grandparents. Whether you’re a grandparent yourself, a grateful grandchild, or someone who’s been “adopted” by a wise elder in your life, Grandparents Day is a chance to pause and celebrate the beautiful bridge between generations. What Makes Grandparents So Grand? • They’re walking history books—with tales of jukeboxes, moon landings, and the original recipe for Sunday gravy. • They’re master cheerleaders, showing up with hugs, cookies, and the kind of encouragement that sticks for life. • They’re wisdom whisperers, offering advice that somehow makes more sense with each passing year. And let’s be honest: they also have the uncanny ability to make you feel like the most important person in the room. A Legacy of Love Grandparents teach us that love doesn’t have to be loud to be lasting. It’s in the quiet gestures: the handwritten birthday card, the saved newspaper clipping, the way they remember your favorite snack or ask about that thing you mentioned weeks ago. They remind us that resilience is built over time—through hard work, humor, and a whole lot of heart. Their stories carry lessons we didn’t know we needed until we suddenly find ourselves living them. And for those who’ve lost a grandparent, this day can be bittersweet. But it’s also a chance to honor their memory—by sharing their stories, cooking their favorite dish, or simply whispering a thank-you into the September breeze. Celebrate with Us: A Little Fun for the Big Day This Grandparents Day, we invite you to: • Share a memory: What’s one moment with a grandparent that still makes you smile? • Send a shoutout: Post a photo or quote from your favorite grandparent on social media and tag us.

Honoring Our Elders: National Senior Citizens Day

By Donna Nichols • August 14, 2025
On August 21, we pause to celebrate the heartbeat of our communities—our senior citizens. This day isn’t just about marking a date on the calendar. It’s about recognizing the wisdom, resilience, and warmth that older adults bring to every conversation, every gathering, and every generation. Wisdom That Lights the Way From stories of first jobs and family traditions to lessons learned through love and loss, seniors carry a lifetime of insight. Their experiences are more than memories—they’re guideposts for those still finding their way. Today, we honor those stories and the voices behind them. Connection That Matters Whether it’s a neighborly wave, a shared recipe, or a quiet moment on the porch, seniors remind us that connection doesn’t need fanfare—it just needs heart. National Senior Citizens Day is a chance to say, “We see you. We value you. We’re better because of you.” Ways to Celebrate Host a storytelling circle or memory-sharing event Share a favorite photo and the story behind it Create a “Senior Spotlight” wall with quotes and wisdom Invite younger generations to learn a skill from a senior (gardening, baking, crafting) Spend time—listen, laugh, and learn A Day of Gratitude Let’s make August 21 a day of genuine appreciation. Whether you’re a senior yourself or someone lucky enough to know and love one, take a moment to reflect on the richness they bring to our lives. Their legacy is living, breathing, and beautifully unfolding every day.  This is a day to be celebrated every day! Senior citizens bring so much fulfillment to our lives, and we need to embrace the moments we spend with them, for they are precious.