It’s one of the most difficult decisions for older adults and for many, it’s one they’d rather avoid: When should I quit driving? Driving is not only a practical need for seniors it represents freedom and independence as well. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention article, “Older Adult Drivers” every day crashes kill 20 seniors and injure almost 540. In 2020 that totaled approximately 7,500 deaths and nearly 200,000 emergency room visits by seniors involved in traffic crashes. Rather than wait for the worst to happen, seniors should ask themselves the following questions to assess if the time has come to hand over the keys.
6 Questions To Help Decide If It’s Time to Quit Driving
1) How’s my eyesight?
Good eyesight is essential to safe driving which is why drivers’ eyesight is tested regularly when renewing a driver’s license. It’s also illegal to drive without prescribed glasses or contacts and it can result in a citation if pulled over. Even those who don’t need corrective lenses, however, should be aware of the natural changes that occur to their eyes so they can best judge their own ability to drive safely. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology article, “Vision and Driving,” these changes can include:
- Inability to see road signs clearly.
- Difficulty seeing up close.
- Changes in color perception.
- Difficulty seeing in low light or at night.
- Difficulty adjusting to bright light and headlight glare.
- Loss of peripheral vision.
Any or all of these changes can negatively impact driving and should be taken seriously when assessing ability.
2) Are my medications a problem?
Many medications, including over-the-counter drugs, can make driving unsafe. As noted in the fda.gov article, “Some Medicines and Driving Don’t Mix,” medications can cause a variety of problems that impact alertness, vision, coordination, ability to focus, and may cause dizziness, nausea, and excitability. For those who take a sleeping aid at night, it’s also important to be aware that the effects may last well into the next morning and impair the ability to drive. Always check and follow medication warnings before deciding to get behind the wheel.
3) How’s my hearing?
Hearing loss is not uncommon among seniors and while it’s not illegal to drive with some hearing loss, the ability to hear is key to safe driving. Honking horns, emergency vehicle sirens, and car sounds like from a flat tire or other damage can all be missed resulting in crashes and injuries to the driver as well as others on the road. For tips on how to drive safely with hearing loss check out the ncoa.org article, “Safe Driving With Hearing Loss.”
4) Am I physically capable of driving well?
Driving requires a level of physical fitness that can be declining in seniors. Loss of muscle mass affects strength, flexibility, balance, and reaction times, all of which are necessary to drive safely. Seniors who have mobility problems, have had a stroke, or who suffer from pain should reconsider whether these problems can impact their ability to drive.
Another aspect is that of shorter stature which occurs naturally in many seniors. Aging bones and muscles can result in loss of height which requires adjustments like those described in the seniorsmobility.com article, “Driver Safety for Driving Elderly: Top Tips” including sitting on a pillow, readjusting the mirrors, seat, and steering wheel to achieve a clear line of sight in all directions, and always wearing a seatbelt.
5) Have I had crashes or near misses recently?
Throughout life, the right to drive is dependent upon a good driving record. Too many tickets and accidents can not only make insurance rates skyrocket but can also result in the loss of a license and legal implications if others are injured or worse.
Being honest about even small mishaps like driving over curbs, small fender-benders, and struggling to park in busy parking lots can signal that something is amiss. Of course, being involved in a traffic crash (especially if at fault) is a big red flag as well and, even if no one was hurt, should serve as a warning that it may be time to consider quitting.
6) Is there anything I can do to improve my driving?
Staying physically fit and active are simple ways to maintain driving skills but there are other options, as well. The AARP article “What is a Formal Driving Assessment?” looks at how a formal driving assessment can not only pinpoint problem areas but also offer solutions that can help keep seniors safe on the road. In Michigan, the michigan.gov article, “Keeping Aging Drivers Driving Safely,” also provides self-screening options and resources for driving rehabilitation.
Another option is Ganton’s Countryside Senior Living where everything is right on site. For more information about Countryside, please call Margaret Nagel at (517) 206-5000 or download our brochure to learn about our care levels, cost, and amenities.
