Aging and Driving

Multiple agencies are studying and making recommendations regarding aging and driving. Age alone is not an indicator that your driving skills are impaired. With age we experience changes in physical abilities along with vision and slowed processing abilities. Decline in overall function happens at different rates for different people.

Common Warning signs that you should consider a driving evaluation include:

• Forgetting where you are going or needing more help than usual with directions
• Getting lost in familiar areas
• Hitting Curbs
• Dents and scrapes on your car
• Driving inappropriate speeds (usually slower than traffic)
• Getting honked at frequently
• Driving out of your lane
• Confusing gas/brake
• Accidents or near misses
• Others questioning your ability to drive safely

If any of the above symptoms are affecting your ability to drive your vehicle, be sure to have a conversation with your physician about possible treatments and a potential referral to see a driving rehab specialist. Auto adaptive equipment and/or techniques may be recommended to increase function and safety.