When my father received the news that his driving privilege’s would be removed, it wasn’t just a piece of plastic that was taken away—it was his sense of independence, his daily routine, and a part of his identity.
I like your perspective on it. Maybe one thing leads to another? Maybe this experience is simply a sign to shape a new reality and let you, and your family, thrive in a new way?
My parents haven't driven themselves for 4 years. It has been a real struggle for them and for us, since we live in the country. I know my dad would be in town every other day if he could find someone to drive him.
I feel that our dependence on cars is a real drawback, and most people don't think ahead to logistics as they age. We put ourselves in this position by living our lonely lives so far from everyone else out in the sticks..
In my dad's defense, he did have the forethought to downsize to a condo so my mom would not have a house to manage should he pass first. He just assumed that he would always drive though.
Thank you for this, Laura. I suspect this is not to far in the future for my father, so it's really helpful to hear about your experience. I'm going to save this to refer back to in the future.
Laura, I am sure this was impossibly hard. My father-in-law went through it also. After driving the wrong way up a one-way street. But no matter how things occur, it affects the person losing the license because it really does represent independence. So sorry.
Sorry to hear your dad doesn't have his license anymore but it's a silver lining to see the family is adapting together to support him. My dad is 83 and might be facing the same reality in the next couple years. Thanks for sharing this Laura.
I like your perspective on it. Maybe one thing leads to another? Maybe this experience is simply a sign to shape a new reality and let you, and your family, thrive in a new way?
Yes, it certainly will encourage more frequent visits.
My parents haven't driven themselves for 4 years. It has been a real struggle for them and for us, since we live in the country. I know my dad would be in town every other day if he could find someone to drive him.
I feel that our dependence on cars is a real drawback, and most people don't think ahead to logistics as they age. We put ourselves in this position by living our lonely lives so far from everyone else out in the sticks..
Yes, forethought is often forgotten.
In my dad's defense, he did have the forethought to downsize to a condo so my mom would not have a house to manage should he pass first. He just assumed that he would always drive though.
Thank you for this, Laura. I suspect this is not to far in the future for my father, so it's really helpful to hear about your experience. I'm going to save this to refer back to in the future.
Thank you so much. I'm glad I can help.
It is a difficult time, for sure.
Laura, I am sure this was impossibly hard. My father-in-law went through it also. After driving the wrong way up a one-way street. But no matter how things occur, it affects the person losing the license because it really does represent independence. So sorry.
Yes, it is a struggle for my mom too as she now needs to hide her car keys and face the brunt of the frustrations.
My husband’s sister dealt with it bc she still lives in SanFran. Tough on that person.
Sorry to hear your dad doesn't have his license anymore but it's a silver lining to see the family is adapting together to support him. My dad is 83 and might be facing the same reality in the next couple years. Thanks for sharing this Laura.
Yes, family has been working on solutions but it is challenging nonetheless given that none of the children live in the same town.
Ah yes, that can be an issue. I hope your family is able to find the best solutions!
Tha KS.
That's a tough one. I remember when my dad could no longer drive at 80 due to dementia. He was crushed.
Yes, he is still struggling.
He has also tried to "steal" my mother's car which leads to arguments.
It's a work in progress and will take time to fully adjust.
It’s really hard to give up our independence. I’ve had a taste of that in the past.