Simple Steps for Safer Senior Driving

Key Takeaways

• Older Driver Safety Awareness Week focuses on helping seniors drive safely and confidently. 
• Getting older doesn’t automatically mean you need to stop driving, but it does mean being aware of changes. 
• Taking a senior safe driving course can refresh your skills and may lower your insurance costs. 
• Simple adjustments to your driving habits and vehicle can make a big difference in safety. 
• Regular checkups with your doctor help ensure you’re healthy and safe to drive. 

Each December, we observe Older Driver Safety Awareness Week, a time to focus on helping older adults stay safe and confident on the road. Getting older doesn’t mean you need to stop driving. Instead, this week encourages making smart choices that help you drive safely for as long as possible. Driving represents independence and freedom, and with the right knowledge and preparation, many seniors can continue enjoying the open road for years to come. 

Why Senior Driver Safety Matters

Driving becomes more challenging as we age, but that doesn’t mean it’s time to hang up the keys. Between 2014 and 2023, the population of Americans age 65 and older grew by 28%. Many of these older adults drive regularly to stay connected with their communities, attend appointments, and maintain their independence. 

While older drivers are generally safe and experienced, they can be more vulnerable to serious injuries if a crash does occur. This makes it extra important to stay aware of how aging affects driving and take steps to stay as safe as possible behind the wheel. 

How Aging Can Affect Your Driving

As we get older, our bodies and minds change in ways that can impact how we drive. Being aware of these changes helps you adjust your driving habits to stay safe. 

• Vision changes: Your eyesight naturally changes with age. You might notice that you have trouble seeing at night or that bright headlights from oncoming cars bother you more than they used to. Glare can become more of a problem, and it may take longer for your eyes to adjust when moving between light and dark areas. 
• Physical changes: Turning your head to check blind spots might feel stiffer or more uncomfortable. Your reaction time may slow down a bit, and you might find it harder to press the brake pedal quickly in an emergency. Arthritis or other joint problems can make it harder to grip the steering wheel or turn it smoothly. 
• Medication effects: Many older adults take at least one medication, and some of these can affect their driving. Medicines might make you drowsy, dizzy, or less alert. Some combinations of drugs can have unexpected effects on your coordination or judgment. 
• Health conditions: Certain health issues can impact driving safety. Memory problems might make it harder to remember familiar routes. Sleep issues can leave you tired during the day. Conditions like diabetes or heart disease may cause sudden dizziness or other symptoms that affect your ability to drive safely. 

Safe Driving Tips for Seniors

Don’t let these natural changes get you down; there are many ways to adjust your driving to stay safe and confident on the road. These safe driving tips for seniors can help you continue driving for years to come. 

• Drive during daytime hours: If nighttime driving has become difficult, plan your trips during daylight when visibility is better. Schedule appointments and errands for morning or early afternoon when you can see clearly and feel most alert. 
• Avoid rush hour: Heavy traffic can be stressful and requires quick reactions. Plan your trips to avoid busy times on the road when possible. Driving when traffic is lighter gives you more time to react and makes the experience more pleasant. 
• Stick to familiar routes: Knowing where you’re going reduces stress and helps you focus on driving safely. When you do need to go somewhere new, plan your route ahead of time and consider having someone ride along with you the first time. 
• Limit distractions: Keep your attention on the road by avoiding phone calls, eating, or adjusting the radio while driving. Even conversations with passengers can be distracting, so save deep discussions for when you’re parked. 
• Keep your vehicle well-maintained: Regular car maintenance helps ensure your vehicle responds properly when you need it to. Keep windshields and mirrors clean for the best visibility. Make sure headlights, taillights, and turn signals work correctly. Check that tires have good tread and proper air pressure. 

The Benefits of Taking a Senior Safe Driving Course

 

One of the best steps you can take for safer driving is enrolling in a senior safe driving course. These classes are specifically designed to help older adults refresh their skills and learn about new traffic rules and vehicle technologies. 

The AARP Smart Driver course is one of the most popular options available. This senior safe driving course can be taken online at your own pace or in a classroom setting with an instructor. The program covers important topics like: 

• How to adjust your driving for age-related changes 
• New vehicle safety technologies and how to use them 
• Proper use of safety features like airbags and anti-lock brakes 
• Techniques for handling challenging situations like roundabouts and highway merging 
• Effects of medications on driving ability 
• Ways to reduce distractions and stay focused 

Taking the AARP Senior Driving Course

Studies show that seniors who complete the AARP senior driving course feel more confident behind the wheel. About 80% of participants felt confident before taking the course, and that number jumped to 89% after completing it. This increased confidence helps seniors continue driving and maintaining their independence.  

If you’re considering taking the course, here’s what you need to know ahead of time: 

• Course options: You can take the course online from the comfort of your home, using a computer, tablet, or smartphone. If you prefer learning in person, classroom courses are available in many communities. The online version lets you work at your own pace and take breaks whenever you need them. 
• Cost and membership: The course costs between $20-$25, with AARP members receiving a discount. Even if you’re not currently an AARP member, the low cost of membership (around $16 per year) may be worth it for the course discount and other benefits. 
• What to expect: The full course takes about 4-8 hours to complete, depending on whether you take it online or in a classroom. You can split the online version into multiple sessions and complete it over several days. At the end, you’ll receive a certificate of completion that you can submit to your insurance company. 

When to Consider Driving Alternatives

While many seniors can drive safely for years, there may come a time when it makes sense to limit driving or explore other transportation options. Here are some signs that it might be time to talk with your doctor or family about your driving: 

• You’ve had several close calls or minor accidents. 
• You’ve noticed new dents or scrapes on your car that you don’t remember causing. 
• You feel confused or get lost on familiar routes. 
• You have trouble seeing traffic signs or signals. 
• Family members have expressed concerns about your driving. 

Having these signs doesn’t necessarily mean you need to stop driving completely. Your doctor can help you understand if these issues can be addressed through treatment, medication changes, or adjustments to when and where you drive. 

Vehicle Features That Can Help

Modern cars come with many safety features designed to help all drivers, including seniors. If you’re shopping for a new vehicle or considering upgrades, these features can make driving easier and safer: 

• Backup cameras: Help you see what’s behind you when reversing 
• Blind spot monitoring: Alerts you when another vehicle is in your blind spot 
• Lane keeping assistance: Warns you if you start to drift out of your lane 
• Automatic emergency braking: Can stop your car if it senses an oncoming collision 
• Adaptive headlights: Improve nighttime visibility by adjusting beam direction 

Some vehicles can also be adapted with special equipment like swivel seats for easier entry, hand controls for those who have trouble with foot pedals, or pedal extenders for shorter drivers. Talk to a qualified mobility dealer about options that might work for you. 

Maintaining Your Independence

 

Older Driver Safety Awareness Week offers an opportunity to check in with yourself about any changes in your abilities, stay informed about best practices, and take advantage of resources like senior safe driving courses that can help you continue driving confidently. 

These steps help you maintain the independence that driving provides while protecting yourself and others. 

Remember, there’s no shame in taking a refresher course or making adjustments to your driving habits. These are signs of wisdom and responsibility, not weakness. By staying proactive about your driving safety, you can continue enjoying the freedom of the open road for years to come. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the AARP senior driving course cost?

The AARP Smart Driver course costs between $20-$25, with AARP members receiving a discount. AARP membership costs about $16 per year, so becoming a member may save you money on the course and provide access to many other benefits. Many participants find that the insurance discount they receive after completing the course more than pays for the cost. 

Will taking a senior safe driving course lower my insurance rates?

Many states require insurance companies to offer discounts to drivers who complete approved senior safe driving courses. The discount amount and how long it lasts varies by state and insurance company, but it typically applies for several years. Contact your insurance provider to find out what discounts are available in your state and how much you could save. 

Can I take the AARP senior driving course online?

Yes! The AARP Smart Driver course is available both online and in classroom settings. The online version can be completed at your own pace using a computer, tablet, or smartphone. You can stop and start as needed, making it convenient to fit the course into your schedule. Some people prefer the classroom setting for the chance to ask questions and discuss topics with an instructor and other participants. 

How do I know if it’s still safe for me to drive?

Regular check-ups with your doctor can help determine if any health conditions affect your driving safety. Warning signs to watch for include having close calls or minor accidents, getting lost on familiar routes, other drivers frequently honking at you, difficulty seeing traffic signs, and family members expressing concerns. If you notice these issues, talk with your doctor about whether they can be addressed through treatment or if you need to make changes to when and where you drive. 

What if I need to stop driving? What are my options?

If you do need to limit or stop driving, many transportation alternatives exist. These include public transportation, senior transportation services offered by community organizations, ride-sharing services, family and friends, and volunteer driver programs. Many communities have resources specifically designed to help seniors get to appointments, run errands, and stay connected even without driving themselves.