Safe Driving and Aging :How to Stay Mobile and Protected
Driving can help older adults maintain independence, access healthcare, and stay socially active. However, aging can bring physical and cognitive changes that affect driving safety. Recognizing and adapting to these changes can help extend safe driving years—or guide a smooth transition to alternative transportation.
How Aging Can Impact Driving Ability
Age-related changes that may affect safe driving include:
Vision Changes – Reduced night vision, glare sensitivity, or difficulty seeing road signs clearly.
Hearing Loss – Trouble hearing sirens, horns, or other important sounds on the road.
Slower Reaction Time – Aging can slow reflexes, making it harder to respond quickly to sudden changes.
Cognitive Decline – Memory, attention, or decision-making challenges can impact safe driving.
Medical Conditions – Arthritis, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, and other conditions can limit movement or coordination.
Medication Side Effects – Some medications may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or confusion.
Reduced Strength and Flexibility – Difficulty turning the head, steering, or braking effectively.
Tips for Safe Driving
As we age, it’s important to adjust our driving habits to stay safe on the road. Here are practical tips to help ensure safety—for yourself and others.
🩺Talk with Your Doctor
Discuss any health issues or medications that may impact driving. Don’t risk your safety—or someone else’s—by ignoring warning signs.
🏃♀️Be Physically Active
Physical fitness supports flexibility, coordination, and reaction time. All of which help with driving tasks like turning the wheel, checking blind spots, and braking.
🚘Consider Your Vehicle
Opt for cars with automatic transmission, power steering, large mirrors, and safety tech like backup cameras.
4. 👓 Take Care of Your Eyes and Ears
Get regular checkups and use prescribed glasses or hearing aids.
5. 🌅 Avoid Risky Driving Times
Limit driving at night or during glare-prone hours like sunrise and sunset.
6. ✅ Check In With Yourself
Don’t drive if you feel unwell, tired, or under medication that affects alertness.
7.🚦Drive Defensively
Leave extra space and brake early.
8. 🕐 Plan Your Timing
Use familiar routes, avoid left turns or highways, and drive during off-peak times.
9. 🌧️ Use Caution in Bad Weather
Avoid driving in rain, snow, or ice.
10. 🔗 Wear Your Seat Belt
Always buckle up.
11. 📵 Limit Distractions
Do not use your phone (it’s illegal), and avoid eating or adjusting controls while driving.
12. ❄️ Use Window Defrosters
Use defrosters and clean mirrors for maximum visibility.
Concerned About Your Driving?
If you’ve had recent close calls or feel unsure behind the wheel, consider:
A professional driving assessment
A self-assessment
Feedback from family or friends
A refresher course like AMA’s Senior Driver In-Car Evaluation or Mature and Senior Driver Refresher. Here is a link to these courses:
Helping a Loved One Retire from Driving
If you’re concerned about an older family member or friend driving, watch for these warning signs: accidents, traffic tickets, anxiety about driving, or medical advice to stop. When addressing concerns:
Be respectful and use “I” statements
Focus on safety and independence, not age
Offer solutions like ride services or help with errands
Be patient—it’s a sensitive conversation
Staying Independent Without Driving
Giving up driving doesn't mean giving up independence. Explore options like:
Local senior transportation programs
Public transit and access-a-ride service
Rideshare apps (e.g., Uber)
Volunteer driver programs
Delivery apps for groceries, meals, and prescriptions
Driving safely in later years requires awareness, adaptability, and planning. Whether continuing to drive or transitioning to other transport options, there are resources available to help older adults stay mobile and connected.