When should an older adult stop driving?

This is a question that many seniors and caregivers wonder about as they navigate the aging process. As the American population ages, so do the people behind the wheel; it is expected that by 2025 one in five drivers in the United States will be 65 or older.

Often, this is not a problem. Plenty of people can continue to drive safely and competently well into their older years and pose no threat to themselves or others on the road. Driving is a skill that many rely on to stay engaged in the community, get to appointments, and maintain their sense of independence. For older adults and others, the ability to drive may represent freedom and empowerment.

On the other hand, aging can come with physical and cognitive changes that affect reflexes, vision, hearing, concentration, decision-making, and other capabilities that are necessary for safe driving. These changes may happen quickly or gradually, with or without a formal diagnosis, and at any age. As potential risk factors increase, it is important to be aware if changes occur that may impact road safety.
There is no “one size fits all” rule for when — or if — someone should stop driving. One driver  might be perfectly safe on the road at 80 years old; another person might have significantly impaired driving skills before the age of 60. Age is far from the only factor to take into consideration, as every individual ages differently and each situation is unique.

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