The Keys to Safe Driving as You Age

How aging affects driving ability

Getting older doesn’t automatically mean someone is an unsafe driver. But age-related changes can impact driving skills, and being aware of these changes is the first step toward staying safe.

Vision changes are a common challenge. You may notice that driving at night isn’t as comfortable as it used to be, or that the glare from oncoming headlights seems more blinding. Your peripheral vision might narrow, making it harder to catch that car coming from the side. And if you’re dealing with cataracts, glaucoma, or macular degeneration, these issues become even more pronounced.

Then there are the physical changes that creep up gradually. Arthritis can make it genuinely uncomfortable to turn the steering wheel or twist around to check your blind spot. Your reaction time naturally slows down—it’s just part of aging—which means you need more time to hit the brakes when something unexpected happens.

Cognitive changes matter too, though they’re often harder to notice in yourself. Maybe you’ve gotten turned around in a neighborhood you’ve known for years, or you’ve had moments where you suddenly can’t remember where you were headed. Processing multiple things at once—watching traffic, checking mirrors, spotting pedestrians—can feel more overwhelming than it used to.

Recognizing the warning signs

If you’re an older driver, trust your instincts. Do you feel nervous or uncomfortable behind the wheel when you didn’t before? Are you getting lost in places that used to be second nature? Maybe other drivers seem to be honking at you more often, or you’re having close calls that leave your heart racing. These feelings are telling you something important.

Family members might spot new dents or scrapes on the car, or begin to notice that you won’t drive at night or on the freeway anymore.

Modifications can make a difference

This is where many people don’t realize how much help is available. Vehicle modifications and adaptive equipment can extend someone’s safe driving years by compensating for physical limitations.

If arthritis makes gripping and turning the steering wheel painful, a larger grip or a spinner knob could make that movement comfortable again. Pedal extensions help when someone struggles to reach them. There are even hand controls that let you operate the gas and brake with your hands instead.

The best way to figure out what might help is to work with an occupational therapist trained specifically in driver assessment and modification. They can evaluate your specific needs and recommend modifications that make sense for you. Many of these modifications are more affordable than you’d think, and some insurance plans even cover them.

Many older drivers successfully extend their driving years by being smart about when and where they drive. Maybe you decide to stick to daytime driving, avoid highways, or skip driving during rush hour or bad weather. There’s wisdom in recognizing your limits and working within them. That’s not giving up—that’s being responsible.

Older Driver Safety Awareness Week reminds us that safe driving isn’t about how many birthdays you’ve celebrated—it’s about your current ability to handle a vehicle safely. Regular, honest self-assessment and willingness to adjust your habits can keep you safe on the road for years to come.

Safety matters—for you and for everyone else sharing the road. This December, give yourself the gift of an honest look at your driving, and explore what resources might help you stay safe and independent.