Have you been in the car lately, while your parent has been driving? Here is the question for you. Would you let your small child be driven by your parent? If the answer to that question is no, it is time to start the “Safe Driving” conversation.

Does your parent avoid nighttime driving, avoid highways or only drive at certain times of the day? Well, that means they have already recognized that their driving skills have diminished.

This is one tough conversation, right? We all think of driving as freedom. I think back to when I first got my drivers license and how I felt free to go wherever I wanted. We all want to be the one to make this decision for ourselves.

AAA driving club has put together some great tools for families to have the conversation and shows compelling evidence to the senior on why accidents increase after 70 years old.

I have included the following free “Senior Driving” resources for your review:

-Self Rating Tools
-Interactive Driving Evaluation
-Conversation Tips
-Talking to their doctor
-Driver Planning Agreement

Remember, try not come across as the parent to your parent…they don’t like it! Read the information included and create your own plan to keep you parent and others safe.

Good luck and remember Rome wasn’t built in a day!


David Wood, Owner, SLO Caregivers
David Wood, Owner, SLO Caregivers

San Luis Obispo Caregivers was created in memory of my Grandfather, Tracy Gordon Wood II. My mission is to honor him by providing trustworthy, compassionate, and competitively priced caregiving services to seniors in my community. After 25 years in the financial industry and the decision to leave behind a successful 6-year position as the Chief Operating Officer of SESLOC Federal Credit Union, I created San Luis Obispo Home Care. This decision served my desire to make a difference and support the growing needs of seniors in my community. As my business grew and I leaned heavily on my financial background, I realized there was a much more cost-effective way to provide seniors with the care they deserve. This realization led to the creation of San Luis Obispo Caregivers, a referral agency and SLO Senior Placement, a free resource for families looking for independent or assisted living options for seniors. Ultimately, I listen, assess your situation and recommend various options that are available for your family.