Evaluating Your Ability to Drive

Article Submitted by LaJuana Webb, program director of the Geriatric Behavioral Health Unit at Princeton BMC. For more information call 205-783-3650.

As we become older there are changes both subtle and significant that may occur. These changes have an impact on the day to day activities we perform including driving a car. How do we know when it is no longer safe to drive?

Many older adults are able to drive safely but we should, however, evaluate the medical and physical changes that affect that ability.
Vision, hearing and reaction time may change with age and impact the ability to drive safely. Other medical conditions like heart disease, arthritis or memory loss also affect driving skills. Some medications affect the ability to drive. When you start any new medication talk with your doctor to determine if it is okay to drive. Yearly eye examinations are also necessary.

We should be aware of signs that driving is becoming less safe. ask the following questions. Have I had several "close calls" or accidents? Do people frequently blow their horn at me and my driving? Do I get confused in traffic? Is it hard to judge distance? Do I drive slower? Other indicators are hitting the gas pedal rather than the brakes and being issued traffic violations.

If you or family members are uncertain about your ability to continue to drive safely, have someone ride with you and observe your driving or ask the Department of Motor Vehicles about driving evaluations for seniors.

When the decision is made that one should stop driving consider options and plan. Family members and friends may provide rides. Look at public transportation schedules, and routes. Check on senior transportation in your area or, if feasible, consider moving to an area within walking distance to stores, churches and friends.