Driving is a lifeline for many older Ohioans. According to the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles, the state had more than 400,000 drivers over the age of 65 in 2023.

But as drivers age, they may experience changes that affect their ability to drive, according to Lori Leonard, BSN, RN, CEN, injury prevention and outreach coordinator for Aultman Hospital. “These could be physical or mental changes,” Leonard said. “Even a change in medication can affect driving.”

Leonard offers the following safety tips to help older Ohioans stay independent longer while reducing risks to themselves and others while driving.

• Always wear your seatbelt.

• Do not drive at night.

• Avoid low light conditions such as heavy rain, fog, snow and dawn/dusk.

• Avoid interstate highway driving.

• Travel at times of the day with lower traffic volume.

• Drive locally only using familiar routes; plan your trip.

• Go to intersections with left turn arrows and designated turn lanes.

• Look for easy parking, including spots that allow you to pull out forward.

• Leave plenty of room between you and the vehicle in front of you.

• Minimize distractions:

  • Do not use your phone while driving.

  • Keep a low volume on the radio.

  • Keep conversations to a minimum.

  • Do not eat, drink or smoke while driving.

• Use the handicapped placard appropriately; it should NOT hang from the mirror of your vehicle when you are driving. It can hang from the mirror when the car is parked.

• Do not drive if you are not feeling well.

“Self-restriction is one way that older drivers can reduce their risk on the road,” Leonard said. “With the help of a driver rehab specialist, seniors can identify where they struggle and limit driving in those conditions.”

If you are concerned about how someone you know is driving, consider talking to the driver, their family member or caregiver or their physician. This will help keep everyone safe on the road.

Sources:
Ohio Department of Aging
Ohio Department of Transportation