Driving and Aging

We often see a news report of an "older" adult accidentally driving into a store front, or hitting people at a bus stop or something similar.  The driver mistook the gas for the brake pedal or misjudged a distance or another reason.  The summary result is destruction of property and sadly, the taking of life.

In conversation with co-workers or acquaintances the statement is frequently -- Grandpa only drives from his house to the store or Mom only drives to church. Unfortunately statistics show the majority of driving accidents occur within 6 miles (9.6 Km) of home.  So when to stop getting behind the wheel?

In my opinion (if anyone really cares) is:   Driving should stop after the first occurrence of mistaking the gas for the brake or overcorrection of the steering wheel.  The driver will instinctively know and should make the decision then.  We have been through hiding the keys and disconnecting the spark plugs.  Things should not get to this point.  Protect your loved one, yourself and the public.  Have this conversation before Grandpa, Auntie or Mom get to this point.  Discuss options for transportation with emphasis on safety as well as expense (both $ and life).  Come to an agreement then stick to it.

(I do not drive any more.)

Sad:  https://www.mercurynews.com/2018/02/09/98-year-old-rv-driver-drives-wrong-way-2-teen-girls-killed/

Bryant Park in Winter

New Hip

2/12/2018  Total hip replacement.  Outpatient procedure - 12 hours from check in to check out.  Anterior approach.  This is the second (and final) hip replacement completed by Dr. Cass Nakasone.  An excellent surgical experience and physical therapy results in walking with only use of a cane three weeks after implantation.

Dr. Nakasone operates on the cutting edge of orthopedic medicine.  Closure of the surgical wound was completed using a "Zip Tie".

PT will continue with many thanks to Dr. Nakasone and his team.  One cannot fully appreciate mobility until it is lost to pain.