Safe Driving Guide for Older Adults

Since everyone goes through unique changes as they age, guidelines for older drivers are not one-size-fits-all. Additionally, since health can change so gradually, seniors and their loved ones don’t always notice right away when their ability to drive safely has diminished. Some people adjust to changes in their abilities by driving less frequently, or only during the daytime when visibility is good. However, there may come a time when a senior should hang up their car keys for good.

There are various reasons driving can become more dangerous with age.

• Multiple medications and drug interactions: For people of all ages, some medications have the potential to cause dizziness, lack of coordination, blurred vision, slow reaction time, and other issues. These side effects are even more likely to happen to older adults, especially if they are taking multiple prescription drugs or drinking alcohol during treatment. Unfortunately, research shows that doctors typically do not discuss the effects of medication on driving.¹
• Reduced flexibility and strength: Changes in mobility that occur naturally with age can be dangerous. Older adults may not be able to press their feet down on brakes with enough force or speed to stop a collision, or to rotate their heads enough to check their blind spots.
• Declines in eyesight, cognition, and hearing: As we age, our vision, cognition, and hearing often become weaker. However, these declines can occur so slowly that seniors and their loved ones may not realize how severe they are.
• Certain medical conditions: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people age 65 or older are more than twice as likely as younger adults to report having a medical problem that makes it difficult to drive.²

Although many people notice significant changes in their physical and mental condition as they age, several risk-reduction strategies for older drivers can keep them behind the wheel for longer. Here are a few ways to improve mobility, visibility, and safety in the car:

1. Meet with health professionals. Make regular medical appointments to check your vision, hearing, pain issues, and medication dosages. Always wear corrective lenses if they’re prescribed. Certain medications and combinations heighten the risk of unsafe driving, so go over all of your medications regularly with a physician to check for adverse reactions.
2. Stay active. Take yoga or other exercise classes that promote flexibility, which is essential for safe driving. Think about how many times you turn your head in the car!
3. Take an educational program or refresher course. A defensive driving course can keep your skills sharp.
4. Drive defensively. If you struggle to see at night, you should limit your driving hours to the daytime and maintain extra distance behind other cars. Practice braking well in advance of intersections and stoplights.
5. Get a vehicle with safe driving features. When choosing a vehicle as an older driver, you should keep several unique needs in mind. For one thing, it’s important to make sure the car is easy to get in and out of. Wide door openings and seats close to hip level can make it easier for those with limited mobility to enter and exit cars. In general, crossovers and midsize vehicles work best for seniors. Giant pickup trucks and tiny sports cars tend not to be the best choices.

Seniors, their children, and other family members should have open and respectful conversations early about the possibility of driving changes down the road. Seniors may prefer to initiate the conversations so they have more control and can reassure their kids they are safety-minded. Their adult children can also start these conversations to acknowledge their parents’ independence and the value that driving brings them.

Many states have stricter licensing laws for senior drivers, so make sure you know your state’s rules. Some states require drivers over a certain age to submit proof of adequate vision when renewing their licenses. Other states require older drivers to renew their licenses in person rather than by mail or online, and some states ask them to renew their licenses more frequently than younger adults do.

Up-to-date driver’s licenses help keep everyone safe on the road. Familiarize yourself with your state’s laws below.

License Renewal Procedures for Older Adults

Safe senior driving is a multilayered issue that incorporates driving ability, planning, potentially difficult conversations, car tech, and vehicle adaptations. Today, older drivers have more car options and driving resources than ever before to keep them driving for many years. While senior drivers have unique needs and situations to consider, it’s up to drivers of all ages to help everyone stay safe on the road. Make sure to wear seat belts and avoid texting and driving, no matter what age you are.