Safety Precautions
Is It Time to Put On the Brakes & Hang Up the Keys?
Review the questions below carefully. For best results, correct the items you have checked off.
Health, Safety & Home Assessment
Many Americans have expressed concern about the safety of a loved one, due to the growing
number of older drivers and today’s driving complexities. These decisions about driving are
difficult for older Americans to make on their own.
This guide is to help bring about the conversation and assist you when the time is right to discuss
the safety of your elderly relative, loved one or friend. More information is available at your state’s
department of motor vehicle office or website.
WARNING SIGNS
Reaction time is one of the most
crucial functions to safe driving. This
slows with age, but increasing
distance between other cars and
objects may help some older drivers.
HEARING
Some hearing loss is common
among people age 65 and older.
High pitched sounds — such as
horns, sirens & train whistles —may
become less audible long before low
pitched ones do. Studies show
people who have hearing di culties
are more likely to be inattentive to
their surroundings. Family & friends
who suspect an older person doesn’t
hear well should recommend a
hearing exam & o er to go with the
older person to get one.
VISION
Good vision is essential to safe
driving. An older person may notice
di culties focusing on objects &
switching focus from near to far. The
ability to see ne detail may
diminish. Peripheral vision may also
change with age. This is signi cant,
because about 98% of what we see
when we drive is seen rst
peripherally. Driving at night may
become more di cult due to clarity
in sight issues. As we get older, we
need more light to see clearly.
Approaching headlight glare may
make it harder to adjust.
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What can I, as a family member or friend,
do if I am concerned about the driving
ability & safety of someone older who
continues to drive?
First, recognize that driving is very important
as it is our primary means of getting around.
Second, if there are other family members or
friends available, talk with them to see if they
have made some of the same observations &
discuss how you may be able to help the driver.
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What can family members & friends do
when a driver continues to drive against
the advice of their doctor & others?
It is best to maintain a sense of trust in
your relationship, being honest
& persistent. Encourage
the person to make
a decision to
reduce or
stop
driving as appropriate. Be aware that people
who lose the privilege of driving often feel
lonely or anxious because they have fewer
opportunities to be with friends or involved in
activities. If the person will not listen to reason,
you may want to discuss the problemwith
their doctor to find out if there are any medical
issues that should be reported.
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If an older driver stops driving, what
alternative means are available?
Most metropolitan areas have alternative
means available, if you qualify. These services
can be located within your community
phone book. Be sensitive to the older person’s
feelings. Expect some emotional
reactions, and do what you
can to help them
through this
trying time.