In this episode of Not Ready Yet: Curating Conversations for the Aging Journey podcast, host Lisa Harper speaks with Melanie Henry, Founder and CEO of the Driver Cognitive Assessment Center (DCAC), and co-author of two books. They discuss the critical need for compassionate and objective assessments of older drivers, especially those experiencing cognitive decline. Melanie shares her personal journey into this field, the technology used for driver assessments, and practical tips for families to navigate the sensitive conversations around driving and aging. The episode emphasizes the importance of family involvement, recognizing cognitive and physical changes, and planning for transportation needs to ensure safety and dignity for aging loved ones.

Takeaways

• Melanie Henry founded the Driver Cognitive Assessment Center (DCAC) to address the gap in driver evaluations for older adults.
• Many families avoid discussing driving safety due to emotional challenges.
• Technology can play a role in assessing cognitive abilities related to driving.
• Family involvement is essential in recognizing changes in driving skills.
• Regular vision and hearing exams are vital for safe driving.
• Ride-alongs can provide valuable insights into an older adult's driving abilities.
• It's important to approach driving conversations with compassion and understanding.
• Isolation after losing driving privileges can significantly impact mental health.
• Planning for transportation needs can ease the transition away from driving.
• Age alone does not determine driving safety; cognitive and physical health are key factors.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Aging Conversations
01:37 Melanie's Journey into Driver Evaluation
03:32 Understanding Driver Assessment Technology
06:48 Navigating Difficult Conversations about Driving
15:21 Strategies for Family Conversations on Driving Safety
18:47 Understanding Cognitive Impairment and Driving
23:04 The Role of Vision and Cognition in Safe Driving
25:25 Assessing Physical Abilities for Driving
26:32 Planning for Transportation Needs
29:20 Fostering Independence and Community Engagement

Resources

Connect with Melanie Henry | [email protected]

Warning Signs Checklist

NAIPC 3rd book - Aging in Place Conversations - The Caregiver's Edition: Stories, Strategies, and Support for Aging in Your Community

Driver Cognitive Assessment Center

#NotReadyYetWithLisa #SeniorHomeCoach #PodcastNotReadyYet
#AgingJourney  #AgingParents #FamilyCaregivers  #CompassionateCare #AgingPopulation  #FamilyMatters #Aging #DrivingSafety #ElderCare #CaregiverSupport #AgingInPlace #CognitiveAssessment #FamilyConversations #TransportationPlanning #AgingandDriving

© 2025 Lisa M. Harper. All rights reserved. “Not Ready Yet: Curating Conversations for the Aging Journey” is a trademark of Lisa M. Harper.