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MARQUETTE — As we age, it is not uncommon to eventually stop driving. If this time comes, you may fear losing your independence. However, an older driver doesn’t necessarily mean an unsafe driver.

There are many resources available to help you and your family decide if you should continue to drive or not. One resource includes your physician’s input. You may qualify for specialized equipment, like a spinner knob, swivel seat, hand controls for the gas and brake pedals and even pedal extenders.

Your Local Area Agency on Aging may help determine your eligibility and, if the decision is made to stop driving, help you create a mobility action plan.

Regardless of age, certain functional abilities must be present in order to drive safely.

Consider getting a check-up not only with your physician, but your eye physician, too. If your eyesight has had significant changes within the last few months or years, talk to your doctor about what services may be available to you to keep you driving safely.

Your physician may also have self-assessments you can take to rate your current driving skills or offer tips on how to stay fit for driving safely.

Alternatives

The Michigan Department of Transportation has a variety of programs to keep you mobile and safe. Many older adults find themselves unable to get around like they used to, and some have given up driving on their own altogether. It is important for you to stay mobile even if you must rely on others to drive for you.

Public transportation can be one transportation alternative that provides fixed-route service (routine bus stops) or demand-response transportation service where the company provides curb-to-curb or door-to-door service.

These types of services greatly enhance the mobility of older citizens who can no longer drive or have medical specializations where care is needed to be transported.

Another alternative to consider is transportation from family members, friends who still drive, church members, senior volunteer groups, and home health aides.

Many senior living communities, centers or even hospitals may have transportation services available. Finally, consider your local taxi or limousine service to get you where you need to go.

For more information, contact: Michigan Department of Transportation – Office of Passenger Transportation www.michigan.gov/mdot; Michigan Department of Health and Human Services www.michigan.gov/mdhhs