As we age, there comes a point when driving may no longer be safe for ourselves and others on the road. Wondering whether someone is too old to drive can be a difficult and sensitive topic to discuss, especially with our parents or grandparents who may not want to give up their driving privileges. However, it is important to recognize the signs of declining driving skills and have open conversations about when it may be time to hang up the car keys.
Too Old to Drive: Aging Population and Driving
The aging population in the United States is rapidly increasing, and with it comes a greater number of older drivers. The American Automobile Association (AAA) reports that nearly 50 million people aged 65 and older held driver’s licenses in 2021, representing a nearly 40% increase over 10 years. Furthermore, the number of drivers aged 75 and older rose by 31% during the same period. With this increase in older drivers, there is a growing concern about road safety and the risks associated with aging and driving.
Cognitive Decline and Driving Skills
As we age, cognitive skills can decline, which can impact our ability to drive safely. However, many older drivers may not recognize or accept that their driving skills have weakened. Such a denial of the situation can make it tough for family members to tackle the issue. One way to handle the situation is to consider implementing an “advance directive for driving.”
An advance directive for driving is a document that individuals can sign to indicate their trust in their loved ones to make the decision to stop driving when necessary. By signing this directive, individuals acknowledge that they may be too old to drive and no longer capable of making the best driving decisions and entrust their children or other designated individuals to take over this responsibility.
The Dangers of Cognitive Impairment and Dementia
Cognitive impairment and dementia pose significant challenges when it comes to driving. Conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease can impair decision-making, attention, judgment, and risk assessment, making it unsafe for individuals with these conditions to operate a vehicle. Experts say that even when caregivers are aware and concerned that a person may be too old to drive, many older adults with cognitive impairment are still on the road.
Evaluating Driving Abilities: Assessments and Refresher Courses
To assess driving abilities and address concerns about older drivers, various options are available. One approach is for seniors to undergo a comprehensive driving assessment by professionals specializing in evaluating older drivers. These assessments typically include interviews, medical history reviews, vision exams, physical assessments, and cognitive tests. The tests can assess whether a person is too old to drive, and when intervention is necessary to take away the keys.
Signs that it’s Time to Stop Driving
Recognizing the signs that one is too old to drive is crucial for ensuring the safety of older adults and others on the road. Some common warning signs include:
- Close calls or near accidents.
- Driving too slow or too fast for the current traffic conditions.
- Frequent dents, scrapes, or other damage to the vehicle.
- Drifting across lane markers or into other lanes.
- Becoming easily confused or disoriented, especially in familiar areas.
- Ignoring traffic signs and signals.
- Getting lost or having difficulty finding the parked vehicle.
- If these signs indicate that a person is too old to drive, it may be time to have a conversation.
If you’ve been injured in a car crash, talk to an Orlando car accident attorney at the Martinez Manglardi personal injury law firm. Call 407-846-2240 for a free consultation. Convenient locations throughout Central Florida.
