Seniors: When is the Right Time to Stop Driving?

For many of us, driving is a vital component of freedom and independence. But aging brings physical changes that can jeopardize your future on the road.

“Most people I see don’t think they have any driving problems,” says Barbara Moscowitz, a geriatric social worker at Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston. “But even subtle changes in your health can affect your reaction time. You need to address them while you’re well, so you can keep driving.”

SENSORY CHANGES

Changes in eyesight may make it harder to see at night, read traffic signs, and cope with glare. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that people ages 65 and older have comprehensive eye exams at least every other year.
Hearing loss also can affect your driving skills by keeping you from noting outside noise such as sirens and horns. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association recommends getting hearing checks every three years after age 50.

Quick fixes: Keep noise in the car to a minimum, and cut back on night driving.

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Learn how you can help seniors by becoming a home health aide.