If a loved one is growing older and is still driving, you might be wondering if it’s time for them to give up their keys. When should seniors stop driving? At what age should you stop driving? St. Mark Village is sharing safe driving tips for older adults and signs it may be time for someone to stop driving.
When should seniors stop driving?
Most people step away from driving between the ages of 75 and 85. But knowing when you should stop driving is never just about age. It’s also about physical health, mental sharpness, and the ability to drive safely.
Who’s on the road, and how are they doing?
- As of 2022, there were over 51 million licensed drivers ages 65 and older in the U.S., a 43 percent increase over the past decade.
- Seniors have more accidents per mile.
- Drivers up to age 79 are required to renew their Florida driver’s license every eight years, while drivers 80 and above must renew their license every six years.
At what age should you stop driving? What about a loved one?
Physical changes can affect a senior’s ability to drive safely, and as everyone knows, people age differently. If you are considering whether it’s time for you to no longer drive or are planning a conversation with a loved one to discuss when should seniors stop driving, check out these age-related changes that can contribute to the dangers of elderly driving.
• Vision: As a person ages, it becomes harder to see in low light. Older drivers are also more sensitive to glare, which is why cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration can cause even more issues for an aging driver. In addition, the older a person is, the more time it takes for their eyes to adjust to distance.
All these factors can result in problems driving at night, seeing and reading road signs, or even recognizing familiar destinations. If your loved one is having these types of vision issues, it’s probably time to stop driving.
• Cognition: Medications can cause drowsiness, as can sleep apnea, both of which can be counted as dangers of elderly driving. Dementia can impact decision-making and memory. While it would seem that anyone, even with only mild dementia, should not be driving, both Alzheimer’s Association and the National Institute on Aging say that people with memory loss may be able to drive short distances on local streets during the day.
However, it’s possible that if your loved one is experiencing mild cognitive decline, they may not recognize they are no longer reacting quickly enough or are as alert as they need to be. You might consider riding with them on a short drive or inspecting their car for an increase in dents. In that case, it might be time to retire the car keys.
• Motor skills: Flexibility, endurance and strength can be affected by aging, and all are needed to safely control an automobile. As you approach the subject with your loved one, reassure them that your main concern is their safety, as well as the safety of other drivers or pedestrians. It can be as simple as arthritis making it too difficult for them to turn the steering wheel, fasten the seat belt, or even turn their heads fully to be sure no other car is coming. Problems with hearing can also pose a danger.
Warning signs when seniors should stop driving:
- Too many close calls with other drivers
- Problems moving foot between gas and brake pedals or confusion about which should be engaged
- Loved ones are worried
- Older adult feels scared when driving
- Missing traffic signs and signals during driving
What if your loved one is not ready to completely give up driving?
In some cases, the decision of whether or not to stop driving will be obvious. But if your loved one is only occasionally driving a familiar route and still appears confident in their abilities and has had no incidents, there are some safe driving tips that help them stay safe before completely turning in their keys.
- Limit driving in the daytime, and do not go out in bad weather.
- Drive only in familiar places and along familiar routes.
- Limit driving to a certain radius of home.
- Don’t drive on expressways.
- Consider only driving when another responsible passenger can go with them.
- Turn off the car radio, do not engage in conversations, and never text or use a cell phone while driving.
No Need for a Driver’s License when You Live in a CCRC
Living in an exceptional senior living community such as St. Mark Village means your loved one doesn’t have to go anywhere else to enjoy every day to the fullest. Gorgeous apartments, delicious dining, engaging social events and entertainment, holiday celebrations, dynamic fitness and wellness programs, special events with friends—it’s all right there with no driving required.
Related: Senior Living Communities Today: So Much More Than You Think!
In fact, because St. Mark Village has such a perfect setting in Palm Harbor, you can even walk close by to a wide array of popular restaurants, shopping, events, and more. Or you can always join the group for a group outing to museums, galleries, markets, nature preserves, dining spots, and so much more. All without worries about driving or parking—because we do it for you!
Related: Palm Harbor: The Tampa Bay Town That’s Great for Seniors
At St. Mark Village, we are here to help you live your best life, in a community where you truly belong. We offer a full continuum of care, along with our Life Care Promise, offering you the reassurance of seamless access to future care options. We would love to tell you more.
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