Time to retire from driving? Tips to prepare

Driving is tied to independence. Plus, Canada is one of the most car-dependent countries in the world, so it’s no surprise that driving is the top transit choice for many of us. Despite our attachments to automobiles, there may come a time when it’s wiser to give up driving.

Thinking about giving up driving in advance could save you from added stress should the time come for you. Here are some reasons to consider giving up driving:

• Retiring from driving could save you money
• Less driving is better for the environment
• Health conditions can impact your ability to drive safely

Ideally, you’ll have the opportunity to prepare to stop driving on your terms. You can scale back your driving and build your comfort with alternatives to driving. Here are some tips to help:

• Talk to family or friends about your plan to stop driving. They may be willing to support your transition by offering to drive you to appointments or a regular activity.
• Make a list of alternatives to driving. Investigate what exists in your community and ask others what they do. Options can include public transit (look for discounts or free programs based on age), taxis, ride-share companies, private driving services and community shuttles to popular locations.
• Consider if living closer to transit may be helpful. If you’re already considering your housing as part of your healthy aging goals, then it’s worth evaluating transit and walkability.
• Gradually change your driving habits. Start trying out alternatives to driving. You’ll become more comfortable the more you do it, and you may even find you like it better!
• Set up a bank account for your transit costs. Once you no longer have a car, you could divert some of the car costs to this bank account. You can use it to pay for taxis or rideshares or to cover your transit pass.

Read the full article: rtoero.ca/time-to-retire-from-driving-considerations-and-steps