Older drivers: Coping with the loss of a driving license
If you are worried about an older person's ability to drive safely it is important to recognise the significance that a loss of driving can have on a person.
In this article:
- How does ageing affect our driving capability?
- What signs indicate that a person is having problems driving?
- What is a driving assessment?
- Coping with a loss of license
- Suggesting a change in driving habits
- Transport options
- Rules and regulations
Driving often enables us to do essential daily tasks such as shopping, paying the bills and getting to medical appointments. It also gives people a sense of independence and choice.
By carefully planning ahead and looking at other transport options you can help a person retire from driving whilst reducing the impact on their lives.
Everyone is different and determining when is the right time to stop driving is highly individual.
How does ageing affect our driving capability?
As people age they are more at risk of certain health conditions that influence driving ability. A doctor should advise a person of any medical disorders that can potentially affect driving capability such as diabetes, heart disease and epilepsy.
The following factors can influence our driving capability:
- Confusion and memory loss
- Poor vision and hearing
- Changes in cognition and reaction times
- Decrease in muscular strength and flexibility
- Medications
- Lethargy
- Illness
If you are concerned about the driving ability of an older person remember to broach the subject with care. Determining whether a person should give up their license is a complicated process.
Most older people are very responsible drivers and open to suggestions of how they can change their driving habits to remain safe on the road.
What signs indicate that a person is having problems driving?
Older people commonly have problems responding to changed traffic conditions, interpreting traffic signs and reacting to pedestrians. Always encourage an older driver to mention any recent driving mishaps or accidents to their doctor.
Doctors cannot test a person's ability to drive and will need to be informed if someone is having problems on the road. Most older people are aware of any changes in their health and adjust their driving habits accordingly. Others may deny they have a problem and insist on driving.
Signs that may indicate problems with driving:
- An increase in crashes or traffic accidents
- An increase in fines for speeding or erratic driving
- Difficulty distinguishing road signs or interpreting traffic
- Changed mood and reaction to traffic situations
- Increasingly getting lost
What is a driving assessment?
In some cases a person may need a driving assessment by an occupational therapist. A doctor can refer a person to an occupational therapist. You can also contact your local Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA) about driving assessments in your area.
An occupational therapist may advise a person to:
- Only drive with some limitation or within a boundary
- Modify the car or fit it with adaptive equipment such as power brakes and steering, adjustable seating and wide rear view mirrors
- Take driving lessons or a refresher course
Coping with a loss of license
If you are able to offer someone alternatives to driving you can help minimise any major impact it may have on a person's day to day life. Start by exploring the many options available in the community.
Your local council will be able to give you information about alternative transport options such as:
- Public transport
- Community transport
- Volunteer services
- Taxis
Suggesting a change in driving habits
Sometimes suggesting a change in driving routine or habits can work. Introducing other means of transport slowly can help a person get used to a loss of license. For instance:
- Not drive at night
- Avoiding high traffic areas
- Driving within a boundary
- Drive with a family member
- Stay off highways
- Stick to short trips
- Know the effects of medication
Transport options
Looking at the various other transport options in the community can help a person do everyday tasks.
- Private home care agencies can help to organise someone to take a loved one to the shops or medical appointments when needed.
- Car pooling with family and friends to the local shops once a week is an alternative.
- Motorised scooters can help older people access the local community and maintain independence.
- Consider organising to have the groceries delivered or shop over the internet.
- Organise for bills to be paid over the internet or by direct debit.
Rules and regulations
The Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA) is reforming its licensing system for older drivers. Always check with the relevant traffic authority in your state for information about current requirements.
- Check out the reforms for older drivers in NSW at the RTA
- You can contact The Commonwealth Carelink Centre for information about transport options in your community on 1800 052 222 or call the local council.
Related articles
References
Roads and Traffic Authority, NSW
A guide for older drivers
Accessed 2008
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