84 year old and driving

[kalms1971]

Hi advice please. FIL is 84, suffers from Parkinsons and several family members have commented on his driving and parking/manouvering. Dont think Do the he due to declare to the DVLA for another couple of years. Should I report it or will it be disclosed? Don't want a falling-out over it but worried

When I was looking into this a year ago, I came across what appeared to be a good rule of thumb.

Would you be willing to let him drive your children if you weren't there?

I dont know what the process is for reporting, or whether then a GP is required to confirm he is OK to carry on. Setting up a taxi account with a local firm for my mum was quite easy. She likes taking the bus anyway and so when costs of running a car are factored in, taxis work out cheaper.

My step dad has just been through this and it was his doctor that stopped him driving but I think the above guide is good. Our local driving centre does assessments where they drive off road with them for a bit and then if they are happy take him out on the roads. Their assessment wasn't legally binding but we had got an agreement from step dad that he would attend and take their advice. People see it as taking away independence and get defensive so it may help keep the family peace if an independent person says it. Also is there a time in the day when he is worse, then book it for that time, as there is nothing you can do to stop them driving at that time if he still has his licence

Should we contact his GP?

Does your FIL have a Parkinsons nurse? That might be the best port of call to start with as they'll be able to advise about assessments etc.

My dad is still driving, but has cut down massively since he started using a mobility scooter routinely (as he can go right into shops on it, so overall easier than parking then using his walker) and since he found the volunteer car service in his town. You book 3 days ahead then just pay the petrol

CMOTDibbler I will ring their GP to try to find out who Parkinson nurse is. The PIL said the nurse was surprised that they have no home help (agency). MIL said family are available. But she will have a shock because we are not. We live a fair distance away and have a 7 year old and I am already tied up with my dad, who has dementia

Sounds like a chat with their nurse would be good then. I make it very clear to everyone involved in mum and dads care that I am not able to do more than provide emotional support.

If they need some care help, then you can go direct to SS to get them to do the care assessment

I had this situation a few years ago. Dad was unsafe but still driving. Talking to him about stopping elicited rage. So i took the coward's way out and when he could not do the paperwork for his tax disk and was driving an untaxed car I Did not help him. The DVLA eventuially pounded and towed his car away. Then he talked about getting another one, at which point I contacted Both his GP and the DVLA. I believe the GP got into touch with the dvla who sent him a health questionnaire which he was never able to fill in. When I spoke to the DVLA they reassured me they would not disclose that I had rung them.