Driving is a key issue when it comes to the safety of older adults and the safety of others.  A news release from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (www.iihs.org) focuses on older adults.  As the population ages, there are more seniors on the road each year; however, from 1997-2006, the number of senior drivers killed in crashes decreased.  During this time period, the number of seniors involved in fatal crashes also decreased.  Many older adults report limiting their driving as they experience declines in memory, vision, mobility, and health, which may be a factor in the study findings.  For more information, the full release can be found on the IIHS website at http://www.iihs.org/news/rss/pr121608.html.

Many factors can affect an older person's ability to drive including loss of vision, loss of mobility, slowed reaction times, and cognitive decline.  It's important that caregivers monitor their aging loved one's ability to drive and address any concerns sooner rather than later.  You may want to speak to your loved one's doctor, or even have your loved one complete a driving assessment.  A geriatric care manager can help you address difficult issues like taking away the keys, and also help you identify alternative means of transportation in the area.  For more about My Health Care Manager's services, please visit our website.

The next post will contain safety tips for seniors driving in winter weather conditions, so be sure to check the blog again soon.