Northwestern Medicine - Empower Health

Spring 2015

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CANCER CENTERS OUR MISSION WELLNESS CLASSES AND PROGRAMS KISHPROGRAMS.ORG AARP Smart Driver™ Course For those age 50 and above, this class includes workbook assignments, video instruction and class lectures. No driving test. Certificate of completion provided for auto insurance discount. $15 A ARP Members/$20 Non-members // Registration Required VALLEY WEST MEDICAL OFFICE BUILDING - 815.786.3962 April 22 & 23, 1 - 5 pm KISH HOSPITAL ROBERTS CONFERENCE CENTER - 815.748.8962 April 29 & 30, 8:30 am - 12:30 pm FOR SENIORS Driving Safety MANY FACTORS CAN influence driving ability. When deciding if it is time for an aging loved one to give up driving, consider the following: Vision problems such as cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration can make it more difficult to navigate or respond to sudden changes in driving conditions in low light. Physical limitations such as arthritis or lack of strength in the arms or legs can make it harder to control a vehicle. Cognitive impairments such as Alzheimer's disease can cause an older driver to become confused and disoriented. Hearing loss can make it harder to react to emergency vehicles or recognize some hazardous situations in time. Medications can cause drowsiness or slow reactions, especially if several prescriptions are being taken at the same time. DRIVING HELPS SENIORS MAINTAIN THEIR INDEPENDENCE, BUT THE CHANCE OF HAVING AN ACCIDENT INCREASES WITH AGE. HOW CAN YOU TELL IF A LOVED ONE IS NO LONGER ABLE TO DRIVE SAFELY? Convincing a Loved One to Give Up the Keys Even if you have observed impaired driving ability, persuading an aging relative that it is no longer safe to drive may meet with resistance. Ask your loved one's physician or ophthalmologist (eye doctor) for help. The American Medical Association has issued guidelines to help physicians screen, assess, and counsel older drivers, and an elderly driver may be more likely to accept the advice of a trusted healthcare professional. If this strategy is ineffective, consider contacting your State Department of Motor Vehicles. Representatives can evaluate a driver's physical and mental capabilities as well as help families convince an older driver to hand over the keys. KishHealth System Cancer Centers provides patients and families with education, support, and resources to deal with the many challenges presented by cancer. Generous donor support helps underwrite the cost of these programs. If you are interested in making a donation to improve the quality of life for those dealing with cancer, please contact the KishHealth System Foundation at 815.748.9954 or visit kishhealthfoundation.org. We are the cornerstone of healthcare for the communities we serve—the first choice for service, comfort, and safety. Look for a list of featured classes and programs on the center spread. Most are free and require registration. Classes with low enrollment are generally canceled three days prior to the start date. Please register early. Register online at kishprograms.org. 2

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