Even if your senior has mentioned to you that she doesn’t always feel safe behind the wheel, fear may keep her fighting to be able to drive on her own terms. Understanding those fears can help you to find solutions.
She’ll Be a Burden to You and to Others
Your elderly family member might not want to stop driving because of how that might impact you and other family members. The big reason for that is most likely a fear of becoming a burden to you and to other family members. Helping her isn’t a burden at all, but it may still feel to her as if she’s creating burdens. Putting together a solid transportation plan can help to do away with this fear.
She’ll Always Be Alone
Another fear your senior might be facing is one around socializing and isolation. If she’s not driving and therefore not going to all of the places where she encounters people now, she may worry that she’ll constantly be on her own. That’s a valid fear, especially if other family members who live nearby aren’t stopping by or making plans to visit her. Giving your senior a transportation solution that is consistently available allows her to be spontaneous and socially active at the same time.
She Might Be Stuck in an Emergency
One of the situations that might be the scariest for your elderly family member is the thought that she’ll have an emergency situation of some sort and find herself stuck with no way to leave. Even with emergency services, your senior may feel far less secure knowing she can’t just jump into her own car and take off whenever she might feel the need to do so. Knowing that she has help, either from you or from senior care providers, makes a world of difference.
She Might Be Stuck All the Time
The other problem she may be afraid will happen is that she could end up being stuck all the time. This is kind of a combination of all of the fears listed above, but it’s also got its own special components. Most people are perfectly fine being at home as long as its their choice. As soon as they are told they need to stay put for a little while, all sorts of little errands become urgent, even if only in their mind. This fear of not being able to do what she wants, whenever she wants, can be extremely powerful.
Having other options, like letting senior care providers drive for her, can gradually help your elderly family member to let go of some or all of these fears. It’s important to let her know that you’re there for her in all the ways she needs.
If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring Senior Care in Simpsonville, SC, contact Heart of the Carolinas Home Care at 864-991-3116. Providing Home Care Services in Greenville, Simpsonville, Greer, Anderson, Spartanburg, Mauldin, Seneca, Laurens, Charleston, Columbia and the surrounding areas.
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