Ask Amy: Friend’s swerving is quite unnerving
– Scared
Dear Scared: Around 45 million Americans are senior drivers – and this number is rising – as boomers become seniors and seniors become elders, and most want to continue driving.
I bring this up because there is some likelihood that other drivers you are encountering on the road when you’re with “Mildred” are also older and perhaps have diminished reaction times to her swerving and unexpected braking.
Or they’re younger, aggressive, and reckless themselves.
If you or she are physically on the frail side, even a minor fender bender where the airbag deploys could be dangerous.
You could tell her, “Mildred, I’m a nervous wreck when I ride with you. I’m happy to drive when we go out, but if you don’t want to let me drive, I’ll meet you at our destination.”
Framing the issue in this way lets both of you know that your feelings are just as important as hers.
Dear Amy: My husband recently passed away, and I am adhering to his wishes by not having a funeral service. I am fine with that, but apparently his family isn't.
His family has asked what my plans are. I wasn't there when they raised the subject with my adult son. He told them we are planning something later.
I wish he had been more direct. I plan on having a celebration of life sometime this fall. It's going to be an informal one, and I expect it to be well attended.
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