How to Assess Your Senior Parent’s Driving Abilities

Driving provides freedom and independence, but certain changes can make it harder to stay safe on the road as people age. 

Slower reaction times, reduced vision, hearing loss, and joint stiffness can all affect how well someone can drive. A once-confident driver may struggle to check blind spots, respond quickly to sudden stops, or judge distances accurately. 

While these changes happen gradually, they can have a big impact on safety.

5 Warning Signs That Driving May No Longer Be Safe

• Frequent close calls or minor accidents: Even small fender benders or scrapes on the car may suggest trouble judging distances.
• Getting lost on familiar routes: Forgetting how to get to places they’ve visited for years may indicate memory concerns.
• Hesitation at intersections or in traffic: Slower decision-making can create dangerous situations on the road.
• Increased frustration or anxiety while driving: If they seem more nervous or easily overwhelmed, driving may be causing unnecessary stress.
• Frequent honking from other drivers: If others often signal frustration, it may mean your parent is unintentionally driving too slowly or unpredictably.

The Role of Medical Conditions and Medications

Certain health conditions can make driving more difficult. 

Vision problems, like glaucoma or cataracts, can limit how well someone sees the road, especially at night. 

Arthritis can make turning the wheel or checking blind spots more painful. 

Memory loss or cognitive decline can cause confusion at intersections or trouble following directions. 

Some medications may also cause drowsiness, dizziness, or slower reaction times, increasing the risk of accidents.

How to Approach the Conversation With Sensitivity

Bringing up driving can be tough. It’s something seniors have done for decades, and giving it up can feel like losing independence. 

The conversation should start with care and respect. Instead of telling them what they “need” to do, ask questions like, “How do you feel when you drive at night?” or “Have you noticed any changes in how traffic feels?” 

Keeping the conversation open-ended makes it easier for them to share concerns without feeling pressured. If they resist the idea of stopping, suggesting a professional driving assessment can provide an outside perspective.

Encouraging Your Aging Parent to Accept Help

Many seniors hesitate to ask for help because they don’t want to feel like a burden. But accepting support can actually make life easier, not harder. 

If driving is becoming stressful or unsafe, offering alternatives can help ease the transition. Instead of focusing on what they’re giving up, highlight what they’re gaining—less stress, fewer car-related expenses, and more opportunities to sit back and enjoy the ride.

At Always Best Care of Greater Nashville, we provide reliable transportation services so seniors can continue their daily routines without worrying about the risks of driving.

Alternative Transportation Options for Seniors

Stopping driving doesn’t mean losing mobility. Many communities have transportation services designed specifically for seniors, including shuttle programs, rideshare services, and local public transit options. 

Family members, friends, and caregivers can also help coordinate rides to make sure their loved one stays active and engaged.

When to Take Further Action

If driving has become a major safety concern and a parent refuses to stop, more steps may need to be taken. 

A professional driving evaluation can provide an unbiased opinion on their abilities. 

Sometimes, family members may need to work with doctors or state agencies to determine if a license should be reviewed. 

These conversations are never easy, but ensuring a parent is safe on the road is the top priority.

How We Support Seniors at Always Best Care of Greater Nashville

At Always Best Care of Greater Nashville, we understand how difficult it can be to stop driving. That’s why we offer reliable transportation, companionship, and daily support to help seniors stay engaged in their communities. Whether it’s getting to medical appointments, running errands, or simply enjoying an afternoon out, we’re here to help make life easier.

Contact Always Best Care of Greater Nashville at (615) 678-0293 to learn more and schedule your free consultation.