Driving With an Older Driver

People are living longer nowadays, which means the number of seniors (those over age 65) is the highest it has ever been. While this is great in many ways, it’s also concerning because senses tend to decrease as we age. People are not able to see or hear as well. Mobility is also an issue, so it is also harder for them to react to avoid road hazards and accidents.

Unfortunately, accidents, injuries, and fatalities involving older people are on the rise. The number of motor vehicle fatalities involving those age 65 and older increased by 5% from 2021 to 2022. Over the last decade, the number of deaths has increased by 42%.

Older adults often need to hand over their license and stop driving when they can no longer do so. They may be in denial about this, as this means a loss of independence. However, when a person’s cognitive awareness, situational awareness, vision, and motor controls are not as sharp as they once were, this can be an unsafe situation for everyone on the roadway.

Driving can become more challenging in certain situations, such as in heavy traffic, construction zones, during inclement weather, and at night in the darkness. While physicians can be a resource in helping older adults decide when it is time to reduce or stop driving activities, family members are often the ones who have to have difficult conversations with their loved ones about driving safely and possibly giving up their keys.

Having this discussion can be emotional and filled with sadness and anger. Here are some tips on how to approach the subject without negativity.

Having the Discussion

When discussing driving with an older driver, it’s important to approach the topic with sensitivity. Here are some key points to consider:

• Acknowledge their independence and how driving helps maintain it.
• Recognize the emotional impact of not being able to drive or having to limit driving.
• Discuss how driving can become more challenging with age due to changes in vision, reaction time, and reflexes.
• Frame the conversation around their safety as well as the safety of others on the road.
• Suggest regular vision and hearing tests to ensure they are capable of driving safely.
• Discuss medications that could affect their ability to drive.
• Talk about available alternatives, such as public transportation, ridesharing services, or asking family and friends for rides.
• Explore community programs that may offer transportation options specifically for seniors.
• Highlight how they can still stay active and independent, even if they reduce or stop driving.
• Reassure them that there are many ways to maintain a fulfilling life without driving.

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer

Older adults are increasingly injured and killed when driving and riding in vehicles. It’s important to have conversations with them to keep them safe.

A Houston car accident attorney from The West Law Office, PLLC has experience assisting those involved in car crashes. We provide clients with exceptional legal representation to ensure they reach a full recovery – emotionally, physically and financially. Call 281-347-3247 or fill out the online form to schedule a consultation with our office.

Source:

nhtsa.gov/road-safety/older-drivers