To Take The Keys or Not to Take The Keys?

Knowing precisely when it's time to ask your elder to surrender their driving privileges is not an exact science. It's also traumatizing for the care giving son or daughter and potentially devastating to the loved one.

Recently There have been two accidents on I-30 involving elderly drivers going the wrong way. One resulted in a head on collision between the elderly man and a semi truck. All those involved died.

The effects of age can't be avoided. Thinning skin, thinning hair, thinning memory.

Here are a few issues that affect elderly behind the wheel:

1. Peripheral vision

2. Distance Judgment

3. Speed and gap perception

4. Neck and shoulder stiffness

5. Slower response times

6. Individual medical problems

7. Not being able to hear sirens and horns


The above list should be taken into account when considering taking the keys. It is not easy. There is no magic age, health and reflexes should be considered; as well as memory. Recently one family took the key of a 96 year old client. He only recently began to decline in health and reflexes. I sat down with him, and the first thing out of his mouth was " I think we need to find someone to drive me around, I can't drive" He drives his lawn mower every where he can, but never his car.

To help in the adjustment period; create a plan for transportation. Is there a van that provides rides to appointments? Can a family member take your loved one to the store each week? Is there a church member to take your loved one to church each week?


As we and our parents age, our roles also change — sometimes subtly, sometimes in ways that turn our lives upside down. But in God's plan, honoring our aging loved ones is not negotiable. Pray for His strength and guidance as you take on the caretaking role. Honor your aging parent, and God will most certainly honor you, His faithful servant.