According to the Federal Highway Administration, 22.2 percent of drivers in the U.S. are 65 and older.
For older adults, driving symbolizes freedom and independence. It enables them to shop for groceries, attend doctors' appointments, or enjoy spontaneous dinners with friends. However, driving also comes with great responsibility, and over time, managing that responsibility can become increasingly difficult.
As we age, chronic health conditions, changes in vision, cognitive decline, and mobility challenges can begin to impact our ability to drive safely. Accepting these changes isn’t easy, and the idea of handing over the keys can feel like an insult and a loss of independence. However, it’s important for seniors and their loved ones to recognize when it’s no longer safe to drive.
Explore how to recognize the early signs that it may be time for a senior to stop driving and how to successfully navigate this significant life change.
It can be challenging to determine when a loved one should stop driving. Some seniors may be able to drive well into their eighties and older, while others may not.
Here are some common signs that a senior should stop driving:
If you notice any of these warning signs or are concerned, take a drive with your loved one so you can observe and address any of these issues.
Talking to a loved one about giving up driving can be one of the most emotionally challenging conversations you may have. Remember, their ability to drive may be closely tied to their sense of identity, independence, and self-worth.
Here are four tips for handling this delicate conversation:
Your loved one may feel blindsided, angry, and defensive. It’s important to approach the conversation with both respect and empathy. Give them the opportunity to express their concerns and feelings. Listen without interrupting, acknowledge their perspective, and give them a chance to vent and share their thoughts.
Initiate the discussion when your loved one is calm and relaxed. Avoid bringing it up during times of stress, disagreements, or arguments. Never bring up the topic while you’re driving together, even if you notice areas of concern.
Schedule an appointment with a physician for an exam. During this visit, discuss current medications, their side effects, and any symptoms related to chronic illnesses that can affect the ability to drive. In addition, schedule a senior driving test with your local Bureau of Motor Vehicles. Hearing the opinion of a medical professional can make a difference.
For most seniors, accepting that they can no longer drive takes time. Give them space to process this information and revisit the topic in a few days. Reassure them that there are other options available and that you are there to support them.
Pre-planning for alternative transportation can help ease the emotional transition from driving. Most cities offer various transportation services for seniors, including ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft, as well as community shuttles. You can also schedule time with family and friends to drive your loved one to run errands or shop.
Another valuable resource is senior living communities, which provide convenient services and amenities, including transportation to cultural events, doctor’s appointments, or local areas of interest.
There's no magic age for when a senior should stop driving. The decision is based on their health, awareness, and resources. When safety becomes a concern, it's crucial to have a conversation and discuss your concerns, as well as those of your loved one.
Download our Family Decision Toolkit for tips on knowing when it may be time to consider a senior Living community, how to select the right community, and more.