Too Old to Drive? 

Question: Dear Grandma, my husband insists on driving whenever we go out, but I don't feel safe with him anymore. Do you still drive? What would you say to him? Response: Dear Reader, when should you give up driving? That's a touchy question. Are you going to know when it's time? I realize you're going to lose some of your independence if you decide to give it up, but, on the other hand, you don't really want to cause injury to anyone. I know I don't see as well driving at night so I restrict my driving to in-town where the speed limit is lower. In fact, for my next high school class reunion we voted to have a noon dinner because we all feel that way. Thank goodness we got smart in our "older" years. Maybe this is another time to be nudged, as I've said before. I don't want to stop driving yet, but if my children suggested it, I would know that it's time. Nor would I fight it because they have good judgement and would be able to see things I'm not aware of. Children would do this out of love and concern. The retirement community where I plan to go has scheduled van transportation for church, grocery shopping, and doctor and dental appointments. In addition, it's within "easy walking" distance to a nearby mall complete with restaurants, cinemas, drug store, dry cleaner, florist, department store and specialty shops. Make sure you investigate all your transportation options, because you might be pleasantly surprised by the number of possibilities. So you see it wouldn't be the end of the world if you couldn't drive anymore - just another step in your life. Grandma