Warning Signs of Unsafe Driving in Seniors

and When it’s Time to Address

Whether warning signs surface gradually or because of a recent change in health, they shouldn't be brushed aside or overlooked. Even minor changes that manifest individually can quickly lead to a more substantial problem. For example:

• Neck pain or stiffness can make it tough to properly check mirrors and look out for other vehicles. • Leg pain or stiffness can make it difficult to switch between the pedals. • Diminished range of motion and arm strength can make it challenging to turn the steering wheel. • Slowed reaction time can impact braking or honking if needed quickly. • Reduced ability to multitask makes it tricky to effectively divide attention between multiple activities. • Impaired vision or hearing can be troublesome to see traffic lights and street signs and hear emergency sirens or honking horns. • Declining memory can be problematic for regularly driven trips and cause an individual to become lost or confused.

WHAT SHOULD YOU BE LOOKING FOR?

When joining your loved one for an errand or an outing, encourage them to drive and observe the following: • Do they remember/are able to fasten their seat belt? • Do they sit comfortably at the wheel or lean forward? • Do they appear tense or distracted easily? • Is there any difficulty moving their feet between pedals? Do they often confuse the gas and brake? • Are they able to properly observe traffic lights, road signs, pedestrians, and the reactions of other motorists? • Do they drive too close to other vehicles or drift into other lanes often? • How’s your loved one’s reaction time in general? Is there any confusion in unexpected scenarios? • Are they consistently waiting too long to brake or accelerate at traffic lights? • Has your loved one retained a good sense of direction? Do they complain that vehicles or people appear suddenly to them?

If you notice any of these warning signs or others, it may be time to share your concerns, talk with their doctor, and/or have a driving assessment done.

Whether your loved one is still driving, driving with limitations, or having to give up driving altogether, being aware of the warning signs can help you to play a valuable role in their safety. Something to Ask Has your loved one’s car insurance rate gone up? This may be a sign that they’ve had recent driving infractions. Consider giving their driving condition more attention.