Support Group Focuses On When It's Time To Take Away The Car Keys

CHICAGO — How does a caregiver start the conversation with someone about no longer driving? Some early warning signs, caused by cognitive or physical challenges, include distracted driving, getting lost in familiar places and finding mysterious dents on the car.

The Caregiver Support Group will address the topic of taking the car keys away from someone with dementia this Tuesday, May 21. The free support group starts at 6:30 p.m. at Smith Village, 2320 W. 1113th Place, Chicago.

Caregivers caring for a family member with dementia will share experiences and get tips about recognizing when it is time to take away the car keys.

This support group provides a confidential, safe and supportive environment and aims to combat the isolation many caregivers experience. Meetings are planned for the third Tuesday of every month.

“Dementia can make it difficult to judge distances, which makes driving dangerous,” said group leader Alice Keane. “If your loved one gets lost often, seems distracted while driving, or you notice bumps and scrapes on the car, it is time to take action.”

These neighborhood meetings are free and open to all who care for someone with Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia. Alzheimer’s Association volunteers Alice Keane, Smith Village resident, and Bridget Murphy, Smith Village life enrichment director, lead the group.
For more information about the Caregiver Support Group meeting or about Smith Village, call 773-474-7300.