… Plus, Driving Tips and Transportation Resources
Driving is a big part of staying independent, but as we age, changes in vision, reflexes, and health can make it harder to stay safe on the road. It’s smart to plan, as AAA research shows that most people outlive their ability to drive safely by nearly a decade. The National Safety Council has reported that the number of traffic-related deaths for older adults is rising:
- In 2022, traffic-related deaths for people over 65 increased by 5% year over year (9,547 fatalities)
- From 2013 to 2022, the number of driving deaths in this age group rose by 29%.
There are many ways to keep driving safely for longer, and great alternatives to help you stay mobile and connected when it’s time to “retire” from driving.
Self-Monitoring: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends that your driving performance, not your age, should determine your fitness to drive. To help with this, you can proactively assess your physical and mental abilities. Regular vision exams, in-person education programs, and computer-based training can improve your skills and safety. Also, be sure to review your medications, as some can cause drowsiness or affect your reflexes.
You can also improve safety by taking steps such as upgrading vehicle safety features (rearview cameras, automatic emergency braking (AEB), blind spot warning), minimizing distractions, and planning for changes in driving habits. But how do you decide to stop driving?
“Plan for your driving retirement the same as you do your work retirement,” said Jake Nelson, AAA’s director of traffic-safety advocacy and research. “The single biggest mistake is waiting until that moment of crisis instead of talking to adult children, caregivers and loved ones and making a plan for what would happen and how [you] would like to handle it.”
A plan might include a weekly arrangement with a friend for grocery shopping, exploring an older adult bus service for medical appointments, and using a rideshare app for social outings. Additional options include public transportation and volunteer driving programs.
Using Technology to Stay Safe: Technology can also help you stay behind the wheel for longer. Unintrusive monitoring systems—like low-cost, in-vehicle sensing hardware—can provide immediate alerts for irregular driving patterns. This type of assistive technology can enhance your confidence and independence, especially for drivers with diagnoses like mild cognitive impairment or Parkinson’s disease.
Newer vehicles come equipped with advanced safety features, such as automatic emergency braking (AEB), which can detect a potential collision and automatically brake to avoid it or lessen its impact. Assistive technology can enhance confidence behind the wheel while helping to maintain independence.
Resources
- AARP Smart DriverTM Course: Offers in-person and online courses to improve driving skills.
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration: Provides tips on self-assessment and creating a safe driving plan.
- Rides in Sight: A national database to find local transportation options for older adults.
- Lyft and Uber: Both offer programs for older adults, such as Lyft Silver and Uber “senior accounts” with a “simple mode” on the app.
- The Centers for Disease Control (CDC): Provides safety recommendations, including mobility planning, regular vision exams, medication reviews, and driving in favorable conditions.
By taking these steps now, you can ensure your safety, peace of mind, and independence for years to come. Start the conversation and make a plan today.
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