Together In Parkinson's | Driving While Senior Safety, Scams, and Resources Featuring Andrea Valdes

Driving While Senior Safety, Scams, and Resources

In this conversation, PRO Executive Director Eileen Lynch sits down with Andrea Valdes of the CA Department of Insurance address the sensitive topic of driving safety for seniors, focusing on how to approach the subject with loved ones, recognizing signs that may indicate it's time to stop driving, and exploring available resources and programs. It also highlights the importance of being aware of scams targeting seniors and the role of the Department of Insurance in providing assistance and information.

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Highlights

00:00 | Navigating the Conversation on Driving Safety

03:04 | Understanding Driving Challenges for Seniors

05:50 | Resources and Programs for Senior Drivers

09:05 | Identifying and Avoiding Driving Scams

11:46 | The Role of the Department of Insurance

15:00 | Alternative Transportation Options for Seniors

Takeaways

• More than 80% of older adults never discuss driving safety.

• Common signs of unsafe driving include drifting and confusion in traffic.

• Starting the conversation about driving can be challenging but necessary.

• The DMV offers programs for mature drivers to improve skills.

• Physicians can play a role in assessing driving abilities.

• There are resources available to help seniors improve their driving confidence.

• Seniors are often targeted by scams related to driving accidents.

• It's important to report scams to help protect others.

• Alternative transportation options exist for seniors who can no longer drive.

• Regular communication about driving concerns can ease the transition.

Related Articles

How to Talk to Elderly Parents About Driving

About Andrea Valdes

Andrea is and Outreach Analyst in the Community and Outreach Branch for the CA Department of Insurance. CDI’s Community Relations and Outreach Branch (CROB). Today, CDI is the largest consumer protection agency in the state. All of CDI''s functions, including overseeing insurer solvency, licensing agents and brokers, conducting market conduct reviews, resolving consumer complaints, and investigating and prosecuting insurance fraud, are to protect consumers. CROB serves to educate consumers through the development and distribution of insurance informational guides with topics including: Fraud, Emergency Preparedness, Senior Resources, Health and other Insurance Issues.

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