30 Dec When to Take the Car Keys From Elderly Drivers

The risk of accidents and medical emergencies on the road can increase for elderly individuals struggling with confusion, slowed reflexes, poor vision, and other issues. Frightening statistics show the number of   motor-vehicle deaths involving drivers aged 65+ increased 5% from 2021 to 2022. In the last decade, deaths have increased 42% as the older adult population in the United States has increased 29%.

Now, more than ever, it’s crucial to support both independent and safe driving for older adults. Part of this is knowing when to take car keys from elderly drivers. If you or a loved one are struggling to understand when it’s time to limit driving, here are some signs that it might be time to have a conversation about alternative transportation options.

Slower Reaction Times Can Greatly Hamper Driving

Reaction times are essential in defensive driving. Hazards on the road can be sudden and require quick reflexes to avoid them. As we age, our reaction times naturally get slower.

It’s important to pay attention to how quickly an elderly driver reacts while driving. Some signs of slower reaction times include:

• Slow to respond to light changes
• Delayed responses to unexpected obstacles or hazards
• Difficulty navigating through busy traffic
• Increased accidents due to not reacting quickly enough

While some older individuals might not have a significant decrease in reaction time, even milliseconds of delay can make a big difference on the road. If you notice these signs in yourself or a loved one, it’s important to consider whether your reaction times are getting worse and if they will affect safety while driving.

Vision Impairment Affects Driving Skills

As we get older, our eyesight naturally deteriorates. This can make it difficult to see clearly while driving and can lead to dangerous situations on the road. Some common vision impairments that may contribute to unsafe driving include:

• Blurred or double-vision
• Trouble seeing objects up close, such as reading street signs or navigation systems
• Loss of peripheral vision
• Vision changes due to medical issues like glaucoma or cataracts
• Trouble seeing at night due to astigmatism

For older adults, it’s important to not only practice safe driving but also comply with state laws related to vision tests and driver’s license renewals. For instance, in Arizona and Florida, older drivers must submit proof of a vision test if renewing by mail.

Regular eye exams can help catch and address vision issues early on, potentially improving driving safety. If you or a loved one are not able to pass a vision test, it may be time to consider alternative transportation options or limit driving only during daylight hours when visibility is better.

Cognitive Decline Can Negatively Affect Driving Ability

Aging can also affect cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases. Neurodegenerative diseases are by far one of the more serious issues and barriers to safe driving. These diseases can cause the following issues:

Dementia

Dementia is a general term for memory loss and thinking disorders that can make it difficult to complete everyday tasks, such as driving. It affects the ability to remember directions, follow traffic signs, and react quickly in case of an emergency. While some people with early stages of dementia might be able to continue to drive, others with more severe memory issues might not be able to. If your loved one is experiencing issues due to dementia such as:

• Getting lost in familiar areas
• Forgetting how to get to common destinations
• Taking longer to finish simple driving errands
• Becoming easily distracted while driving

These are all warning signs that it may be time to stop driving for safety’s sake. Your doctor might also advise against driving if your loved one has been diagnosed with dementia.

Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s is a type of dementia that slowly damages the brain, causing memory issues and other cognitive impairments. As the disease progresses, it can have a significant impact on driving ability.

Alzheimer’s symptoms that can negatively impact daily life, including driving, include:

• Inability to learn new information
• Inability to remember dates, current locations, and familiar people
• Increased aggression and anxiety
• Mood changes
• Difficulty completing everyday tasks like bathing
• Poor judgement

If you or a loved one have been diagnosed and notice your AD symptoms getting worse, you will eventually need to explore alternative options for traveling.

Other Aging Physical Issues Affects Driving Ability

Medical issues, such as increased risk of stroke, heart attack, and seizure disorders, can also pose a significant threat to safe driving for seniors. These conditions can cause sudden health emergencies while on the road, which can lead to accidents and injuries.

Some states might revoke licenses until a person is medically stable to drive, such as with seizure disorders. It’s crucial for older adults with these medical issues to follow their doctor’s recommendations and limit or stop driving altogether if necessary.

Many Medications Can Impact Response Time and Alertness

Certain medications, such as those for high blood pressure, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety medication can increase the risk of dizziness, fainting, and sedation. These side effects are amplified if a medication is new or with increased doses. It’s a good idea to see how someone responds to a medication for several weeks before getting behind the wheel.

If a loved one is unable to stop taking medication, they may need to limit or stop driving until their body adjusts. It’s essential to talk to a doctor about any potential side effects and how they can impact driving ability.

Increased Accidents and Car Damage

Unfortunately, not all older individuals will be open about their medical issues, medications, or cognitive health issues. Research shows that fear of becoming a “burden” to their loved ones is a common reason why older individuals won’t disclose their health issues to their loved ones.

This lack of transparency can be incredibly harmful when it comes to driving. If you suspect your loved one has age-related issues that impact their driving, but won’t be open about discussing them, there are signs to look for such as:

• Increased damage like dents, scratches, or accidents to their car
• Struggling with basic driving skills like parking, braking, and accelerating
• Increased number of traffic tickets and violations
• Taking longer to complete tasks than normal

Finding a Solution that Works

Reassure your family member that it’s not about taking away their independence, but rather ensuring their safety and the safety of others on the road. It may also be helpful to involve a doctor, therapist, or assisted living facility in these discussions to provide a professional perspective and recommendations.

Have open, honest conversations with older adults about their medical conditions, medications, and driving abilities. This communication can prevent accidents and open the door for finding alternative transportation solutions that work to keep you or your loved one safe.

About the Author:

Mark Gladden

Mark Gladden is the Founder and CEO of Present Moments Senior Living, a cozy and comfortable family-run Board and Care in San Diego.  Mark is also a U.S. Veteran who has been serving the recovery community of San Diego for a decade. As Founder and CEO of Present Moments Senior Living, he has helped countless individuals and families on their path to recovery and wellness. If you or an aging loved one are looking for high-quality, compassionate assisted living in San Diego, call Present Moments Senior Living at  (442) 232-2824 or visit their website at https://presentmomentsseniorliving.com/

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Last Updated on December 31, 2024 by Marie Benz MD FAAD