Driving Safety as You Age: Self-Checks and Refresher Tips

For many people, driving means independence: getting to appointments, visiting friends and running errands on your own schedule. Age alone does not determine whether someone can drive safely, but certain changes that become more common with age can affect driving skills. Regular self-checks and a few adjustments can help you stay safe on the road.

Changes that can affect driving

Vision. It may become harder to see at night, judge distances, handle glare or notice movement from the side.

Hearing. Difficulty hearing horns, sirens or noises from your own car.

Reaction time and flexibility. Slower reaction times, or stiffness that makes it harder to turn your head to check blind spots.

Medications. Some medicines can cause drowsiness, dizziness or slowed reactions, especially in combination.

Health conditions. Conditions affecting memory, attention, movement or alertness can affect driving.

Self-check questions

Ask yourself honestly:

• Do I feel nervous or overwhelmed while driving?
• Have I had close calls, near misses or minor fender benders recently?
• Do I have trouble seeing signs, pedestrians or other vehicles?
• Do I get lost on familiar routes?
• Have family or friends expressed concern about my driving?
• Have I received warnings or tickets recently?

If you answer yes to some of these, it may be time to talk with your doctor and consider a driving evaluation.

Steps to stay safe

Get regular vision and hearing checks. Keep your glasses prescription up to date.

Review medications. Ask your doctor or pharmacist whether any of your medications could affect driving.

Stay physically active. Exercises that improve strength, flexibility and range of motion can make it easier to turn, brake and check blind spots.

Take a refresher course. Mature driver courses review rules of the road and defensive driving techniques. Many insurers offer discounts for completing an approved course.

Adjust your vehicle. Make sure seats, mirrors and steering wheel are positioned properly. Programs like CarFit, offered in many communities, help drivers adjust their vehicles for safety and comfort.

Consider newer safety features, such as backup cameras, blind-spot warnings and automatic emergency braking, if you are buying a car.

Adapt your driving habits

• Avoid driving at night or in bad weather if it is difficult.
• Plan routes to avoid heavy traffic, complex intersections or highways if they make you uncomfortable.
• Leave extra space between you and the car ahead.
• Limit distractions. Put your phone away and keep the radio low.
• Always wear your seat belt.
• Take breaks on longer trips.

Professional driving evaluations

A driver rehabilitation specialist, often an occupational therapist, can evaluate your driving skills on and off the road and recommend strategies, adaptive equipment or training. Ask your doctor for a referral.

Planning for transportation alternatives

Thinking about alternatives before you need them can make a future transition easier:

• Public transportation, including reduced-fare programs
• Paratransit services for people with disabilities
• Volunteer driver programs
• Ride-share services
• Rides from family and friends
• Senior center shuttles

Your local Area Agency on Aging can help you find transportation options. Call the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116.

For families

If you are worried about a loved one's driving, start the conversation early and respectfully. Focus on specific observations and safety, and involve their doctor if needed.