For many older adults, driving is more than a way to get from place to place, provides access to family, friends, medical appointments, errands, and the routines that help people stay active and engaged. It represents independence, connection, and the ability to manage daily life on one's own terms.

At the same time, safe driving relies on several abilities, such as clear vision, sound judgment, quick reaction time, flexibility, and sustained attention. These skills can change gradually with age or with the onset of medical conditions.

Nearly every week, local news outlets report incidents involving drivers traveling the wrong way down a street, striking pedestrians or bicyclists, mistakenly pressing the accelerator and crashing into storefronts, or becoming so disoriented that they either end up hours from home or drive into a lake. As an Elder Law practitioner, I often hear of the accidents…  a child, bicyclist, or pedestrian being hit by a driver. Quite often, it is an event that could have been avoided by a driver or a family member who knew the driver should not be driving.

Aging does not automatically make someone an unsafe driver. In fact, many older adults are experienced, cautious drivers. The real question is not based on age, but whether the driver can continue to drive safely and confidently.

One warning sign does not always mean someone must stop driving right away. However, repeated close calls, confusion, or trouble managing routine driving situations should be taken seriously. Health changes can affect driving in several ways. Vision problems may make it harder to read signs, judge distance, or deal with glare at night. Hearing loss can make it more difficult to notice horns, sirens, or vehicle issues. Stiff joints, arthritis, or muscle weakness may affect steering, checking blind spots, or braking quickly. Medications, memory changes, and slower reaction time can also reduce a driver's ability to respond safely on the road.

Warning Signs

Ø  Medical Diagnosis – such as mild cognitive impairment, dementia, Alzheimer's disease, vision issues, hearing issues, tremors, or a history of stroke or seizures.

Ø  Feeling nervous or overwhelmed,

Ø  Exhausted after short drives or errand runs.

Ø  Getting lost on familiar routes.

Ø  Missing turns often.

Ø  Frequent close calls, sudden braking, or delayed reactions.

Ø  Failing to remain in the driving lane.

Ø  Driving in the designated bike lane.

Ø  New dents or scrapes on the car, mailbox, or garage.

Ø  Difficulty seeing lane markings, traffic signals or signs, or pedestrians.

Ø  Trouble checking mirrors or turning to look over the shoulder.

Ø  Confusing the gas and brake pedals.

Ø  Receiving tickets or warnings for speeding, running a stop signs or red lights.

Ø  Family members or friends become reluctant to ride along.

There are several steps you can take to stay a safe driver longer. Here are a few suggestions:

Ø  Refresher driving courses.

Ø  Medical driving evaluations by an expert.

Ø  Schedule regular vision and hearing checks.

Ø  Review all medications for side effects such as drowsiness or dizziness.

Ø  Ask a doctor, such as a neurologist, to evaluate whether changes in health or medication are affecting safety behind the wheel.

Ø  Drive during daylight and in good weather.

Ø  Avoid high-traffic areas and unfamiliar routes.

Ø  Avoid school zones during peak times.

Ø  Keep mirrors, headlights, and windshields clean.

Ø  Vehicle adaptations recommended by a specialist.

Ø  Minimize trips to grocery stores or retail stores by ordering through delivery services.

Knowing when to hand over the keys is not about age. It is about recognizing changes honestly, taking warning signs seriously, and making thoughtful plans that protect both the driver and everyone else on the road. Have an honest conversation with yourself and with your family. With support, open communication, and practical alternatives, this transition can be handled with respect. Plan in advance so giving up the keys does not feel like losing all independence.

Conversations about driving can be difficult. It is best to talk early, before a crisis or serious accident happens.

For information about driving evaluation providers, please contact our office for recommendations.