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New Online Education Campaign Helps Families Talk To Elderly Parents About Driving

CARLE PLACE, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) -- When it comes to senior citizens and their safety behind the wheel the subject is often avoided.

However, as CBS2's Carolyn Gusoff reported, there is help out there for families struggling to talk about the topic.

Ellen Greene, 83, has no plans of hanging up her car keys to her sporty new red car.

"I feel completely confident behind the wheel," Greene said.

Driving is often a lifeline for fiercely independent senior drivers. The idea of retiring from driving can spark anger and depression.

Mel Brenner had to have the tough talk with his 94-year-old mother.

"They really are getting into accidents. My mother couldn't see past the nose of the car," Brenner said. "It was very difficult."

"Let's Talk About Driving" is a new online education campaign.

It offers tips in a difficult role reversal.

"The kids are in denial, they don't want to admit mom or dad is failing," Greg Altfest of Home Instead Senior Care said.

Altfest explained that no one broaches the subject with 95 percent of aging drivers.

"Observe your parents, watch what they are doing, drive with them," Altfest said.

He added then pose caring questions to them.

"How do they feel? Do you feel safe on a busy road, merging onto a highway? Are you concerned about hurting someone with your car?" Altfest said.

Signs that elderly parents may not be safe on the road include getting lost, mysterious dents, parking gone awry, driving the wrong speed, riding the brake, confusing pedals and delayed reactions.

Driving doesn't have to stop short. Gradually tapering off, reducing rush-hour driving, night time and city driving allows time for families to come up with a roadmap for the future.

Both New York and New Jersey do not have a mandatory age for driving re-testing. However, New York law allows private citizens and doctors to report those who may be dangerous behind the wheel.

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