Expert Answer by: Expert User, Executive Director, Eldercare Resources, LLC

The decision to give up driving is one of the more difficult issues facing older adults. Research suggests that we outlive our ability to drive by almost ten years – but knowing when to stop is not always clear. You’re right to be concerned, particularly if you’re seeing new dents on your father’s car and don’t want your children to be in the car when he’s driving. Continue pushing for a dialog with your father about your concerns but be prepared for resistance. Investigate alternative transportation options in his community such as town or state sponsored services for the elderly and handicapped, Lyft or Uber services, taxi services offering discounts for seniors, or private drivers. Some hospitals offer driver evaluation program. Check the local hospitals where your father lives. Finally. if he continues to drive despite your best efforts to convince him otherwise, then notify his primary physician about your concern. Physicians are encouraged to make written reports to Divisions of Motor Vehicles when they are concerned about a patient’s ability to continue driving safely.