Independence and Freedom
The key focus of this post is about your independence and freedom.
Driving
It seems we go full circle when it comes to driving. When you’re sixteen, your parents watch you like a hawk and don’t want you to drive alone. Fast forward forty years and it’s you who wants to take the car keys away from your parents. In both cases – you really must consider the circumstances and the physical / mental well-being of the driver. Are their reflexes good? Do they get distracted easily?
What is the breaking point of when someone should not be driving anymore? There are so many signs to look out for:
- Getting lost while driving in familiar places
- Going to an incorrect destination at the wrong time or day
- Struggling to stay within your lane
- An inability to keep up with traffic (i.e., driving too slow or fast)
- Not obeying road signs (e.g., not stopping at a stop sign)
- Having difficulty moving from the brake to the gas pedal
- Finding unexplained scratches or dents on your car
How do you assess whether physical changes are affecting your driving skills? Read the following article: Driving Safely While Aging Gracefully
There is no “set” age when someone should stop driving – but as we age, our vision, reflexes and hearing changes. These changes can make it harder for someone to drive. Even certain medications can play a factor. This is a conversation you should have with your doctor and family.
If you do give up your car – there are financial savings (ex. car payments, gas, insurance). But then – you have to consider how you will get place or appointments. Family or friends can help. Public transit and Ubers / taxis are usually readily available. You can ask your local senior center for other ideas. I’ve also read about hospitals / doctor’s offices who provide transportation. Research all your alternatives and plan ahead.
Medical Alert System
Everyone wants independence but it’s important that your loved ones feel you can handle that independence as you approach the Golden Years. You want to live alone but your children / immediate family want to ensure you’re safe. What can help alleviate their (and even our own fears)? A medical alert system.
First – you might wonder – what is a medical alert system? You’ve all seen the commercials. “I’ve fallen and I can’t get up!” A medical alert system is a personal emergency device, often worn as a pendant or wristband, that connects users to help with the push of a button. It then summons emergency services or loved ones by contacting a 24/7 monitoring center, providing immediate assistance for falls, medical emergencies, or other crises. It essentially acts as a personal safety net.
Depending on the comfort level – it can be a pendant worn around the neck or a small device worn on the belt. It can be a smartwatch. You can also have motion sensors installed in the home. Newer technology doesn’t even require you to press a button – it can detect if you fall.
As with everything – there is a cost. Aside from the one-time cost for hardware, there are often ongoing fees and sometimes activation charges. Some (or all) of these may be partially funded by reductions on insurance or Medicare Advantage / Medicaid.
To me – you can’t really put a price on a safe peace of mind. But the question also arises – will you (or your loved one) always wear it? Yet another conversation to have.
Resource Tip: Read more about Medical Alerts systems here:
Susan B Anthony said, “Independence is happiness.” Quite the true statement for many – you just must ensure that your own safety and well-being is taken care of.