Am I too old to drive? Here's a guide to safe driving for seniors

Photo: American Senior Communities

As we grow older, many of us begin to weigh the pros and cons of continuing to drive. We wonder and worry about how safe we really are behind the wheel of a car. But for active seniors, driving is more than just transportation—it’s a symbol of freedom and independence. It can also be a gateway to staying socially connected, an important factor in healthy aging. 

Whether it’s driving to the grocery store, visiting family, going to the hair salon or barber, volunteering for a cause or heading to the gym, the ability to drive is often essential to maintaining an active lifestyle. But with aging come natural changes in our physical and cognitive abilities. Eyesight, reaction times, hearing and joint flexibility may not be what they once were. 

Do these types of losses mean it’s time for an older adult to hang up the car keys for good? Not necessarily, say the experts. 

For many older adults, continuing to drive safely is possible. But it may mean making a few key adjustments and maintaining a healthy sense of self-awareness. This short guide will answer senior drivers’ most commonly asked questions and offer practical tips to help you stay safe, confident and independent on the road. 

Question: Am I Too Old to Drive? 

Short answer: No. There’s no magic number that makes someone unfit to drive. What matters most is not your age but your individual health and ability. A person in their late 80s who is in good health might be a better driver than a much younger adult who has mobility challenges or a chronic health condition. 

However, it is important to note that the risk of being involved in a crash does increase after age 70. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 25 seniors lose their lives, and over 740 are injured, in car accidents every day. 

These statistics are especially meaningful if an older driver has certain medical conditions or is taking a medication that affects balance, alertness or judgment. That’s why it’s essential to regularly evaluate your health and driving habits. Your doctor and your family can help with this, but what’s most important is that you’re honest with yourself. 

Self-assessment questions: 

• Do I have trouble seeing at night or judging distances?

• Do I get confused in traffic or on unfamiliar roads? 

• Do I take medications that make me drowsy or dizzy? 

• Do other drivers often honk at me? 

• Have I recently been involved in minor accidents or near misses? 

If you answered yes to any of the above, it’s time to take action—but not necessarily give up driving. Let’s learn more about each of these potential problems, and what you might do to successfully manage them so they don’t impact your driving. 

For additional information, visit this blog at https://www.asccare.com/staying-safe-behind-the-wheel-a-seniors-guide-to-smart-driving/

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