THERE ARE ALTERNATIVES FOR SENIORS WHO CAN'T SAFELY DRIVE

Massachusetts has recently seen a surge in driving accidents involving seniors, prompting a debate on driver re-testing laws and stricter requirements for elderly drivers. Within the past month there have been eight serious car accidents involving drivers aged 73 to 93. The Massachusetts legislature is deliberating on a bill that would impose driving tests on people over 85 years of age. Currently, Massachusetts only requires a vision test (for all drivers) every ten years.

I recently wrote to area legislators to weigh in on the subject. I explained that there are alternatives for seniors that can assure independence ever after a senior can no longer safely drive. Driving and independence do not need to be inextricably linked. Our caregivers at Right at Home Boston Metro West, can drive a senior to appointments, shopping, and even to visit with friends. It removes the dependence on public transportation, or expensive private transportation, and can be the difference between a senior staying home alone and going out.
As our policymakers deliberate on this issue, they should consider that home care can be a vital resource for those seniors who, in reality, can no longer operate a vehicle. Home care can ensure safety on our roads as well as continued independence for seniors. This issue is not all or nothing. There are alternatives.

Caregivers from our agency are carefully screened to ensure a safe and appropriate fit with the senior in need of the service. The screening process involves extensive background checks that include a review of national criminal record databases, as well as, driving records.
At Right at Home, we believe that at a time when we are seeing an alarming incidence of serious crashes involving seniors, this information may be helpful to families across the Commonwealth.

To learn more about how home care can help seniors whose driving skills have declined, consumers can contact Right at Home at 617-597-1500 or go to the agency’s website at http://www.bostonmetrowest.rightathome.net