When Driving Isn't Safe: Issues, Intervention, and Strategies

Losing the ability to drive safely can be a complicated and frustrating time for elders. Becoming incapable of driving can leave elders with the uncomfortable feeling that they are giving up their independence. Since this is a critical issue that both elders and family members need to handle correctly, a forum entitled “When Driving Isn’t Safe: Issues, Interventions, and Strategies” will be offered by Mystic Valley Elder Services (MVES) and Somerville-Cambridge Elder Services (SCES) in October.

The discussion will take place on October 5 at MVES from 5 to 7 p.m. This free forum is open to family members, interested professionals, and any others who would like to attend. A panel of experts that includes AgeInfo/ Services Supervisor of SCES Shauna Peet, Director of Special Projects for the Massachusetts Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association Gerald Flaherty, and a driving evaluation expert.

The focus of the forum is to educate family members on elder driving concerns. These concerns will be identified and suggestions for ways to establish a dialogue between family members and elders about driving will be presented.

Two similar discussions will also be offered in local areas. One will be on September 29 at the Brooksby Village located in Peabody and the other will be on October 14 in the Merrimack Valley area.

If you have any questions or would like further information, please contact MVES Caregiver Support Coordinator Kathy Learned or MVES Client Services Manager Sarah Schad at 781-324-7705.