Driving is often one of the last stands in claiming independence. Remember back to when you first got your own driver's license and the feeling of independence you got from having it, no matter what the restrictions your parents put on your driving. Think about having to give up driving and what it would mean to your lifestyle.

Have you ever been stuck in the house waiting for the plumber to come “sometime between 8:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M.?” You sit and wait all day. Any other time you might not have a thing to do, but suddenly because you can't leave, you have a million things to do. That is somewhat similar to most seniors' reactions to giving up driving.

Usually they are in denial about the reasons they should stop driving. They've always been a safe driver, and nothing has changed. Their eyesight is just fine and their reactions are not slowed. They have no problems remembering where they intended to go, nor how to get there. Then why does it take them seemingly forever just to walk to the car?

Providing your parents with alternative solutions can help them ease into giving up driving, especially at peak traffic times, at night, or when children are most likely to be out playing or walking to and from school.

Senior centers throughout the country can usually provide you with information about such transportation assistance programs as a dial-a-ride, senior vans, and others. Taxi services sometimes offer discounts to seniors. Medical groups sometimes offer shuttle services either from your door to the medical office or from central locations such as senior centers to large clinics. Other medical transportation can often be arranged through the services needed, such as dialysis centers, chemotherapy centers, and organizations such as the American Cancer Society.

Prearranged appointments, shopping trips, and other outings can be easier for family members to assist with transportation issues, but spur-ofthe-moment changes and needs can present challenges. Friends and neighbors can sometimes be called upon to assist, but care must be taken not to burn them out or to abuse the privilege.

College students looking for some extra pocket money and nonregular commitments may be a good resource. Check with your local community college admissions and student affairs office to see if there are job postings allowed. Community Internet listings such as craigslist can be a good resource as well. Take care to screen applicants well and to set up safety checks and parameters so no one is victimized.

Guilt is a useful tool for encouraging older parents to give up driving; after all, they wouldn't want to be the cause of anyone's unfortunate injury or death because of their own pride or selfishness would they?