One aspect of daily life that older people often find hard to give up is driving.We all know it is time to turn in the car keys when vision begins to fail or any other health condition becomes a factor.But some people hold onto the car keys a little too long if they don’t recognize their deteriorating health or in an effort to stay as independent as possible in their senior years.With the “baby boomer” generation expected to increase the sheer quantity of senior drivers in the next couple of decades, states across the nation are seeking a way to change regulations to make sure everyone’s driving safely into their golden years.
A recent article from USA Today discussed which states were making changes to assure older drivers were well enough to continue driving.According to Census projections, Americans aged 65 and older will jump from 39 million in 2010 to 69 million in 2030.Peter Kissinger, president of AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, reported to USA Today that currently 15% of all drivers in the U.S. are 65 and older, but by 2025 approximately one quarter of all drivers will be over 65.Kissinger went on to say, “I really don’t think our society is ready for that.We are not ready with respect to the kinds of issues older drivers face.”
This is why some states have begun to try new methods of testing aging drivers to make sure they can navigate roads safely.California, for example, has begun issuing limited licenses which allow older drivers, after passing a test, to only drive on specific routes that they travel regularly.And Maryland passed a law allowing police, doctors, and residents to refer unsafe drivers to the Motor Vehicle Administration’s Medical Advisory Board to be evaluated.
States have already begun to reap the benefits of new testing for the elderly.After a Florida law was passed in 2004 that required older drivers to pass a vision test before getting a license renewed, the death rate among drivers 80 and older has gone down by 17 percent.Thomas Meuser, a gerontologist at the University of Missouri, believes new regulations should be put in place for older drivers, but does not want them to be stereotyped as lousy drivers.Meuser said, “Most older drivers are safe drivers.The challenge is older drivers with either subtle but progressive health issues that affect them without their knowledge.”
What do you think of testing elderly drivers more often before renewing a license?
Do you think all states need to adopt new methods of testing older drivers?
62 Comments
jewelrymom3 says:
on Jul 08, 2009
I don't feel there should be a 'particular' age that is too old. I like the fact of having certain tests to determine whether a person is still able to drive or not. I mean there feelings should be considered and not just trampled on. Don't get me wrong, they should be able to see and hear well and also have good reflexes and judgement.
babyann says:
on Jul 08, 2009
I think there are bad and good drivers regardless of age. I think there should be certain test given to everyone, not just based on age.
mardel says:
on Jul 08, 2009
I believe that no matter how well of a driver you are there should be an age limit and mine would be at the age of 70! The driver needs to be evaluated and tested to make sure he/she still know what they are doing! It's my family out there and I need to know they are safe! Thanks
CrystalBurgard says:
on Jul 08, 2009
Age is just a number and I don't feel it's right to take someone's license away just because they turn a certain age. The deciding factor should be is the person still capable of operating a vehicle safely which can be determined by retaking the tests at certain intervals, like every 10 years or something. I think this should go for everyone, not just the elderly. There are way too many young drivers on the road with barely enough experience to pass the test, let alone drive at night, in the rain or snow, etc, but there are also still plenty of people in all age groups that should not have gotten a license in the first place and it boggles the mind how they havent killed someone already
Niecy38 says:
on Jul 08, 2009
mardel i so agree with you well said..
mitzi357 says:
on Jul 08, 2009
Capability is not determined by age alone, but by physical well being.
If you are going to test, then Retest everyone - not just the elderly.
The idea of a restricted area license is a good idea, I think... kind of like
those who have a hardship license and can only drive to work and for groceries,
doctor, church, etc.
msfriendly says:
on Jul 08, 2009
I've seen more young drivers that are worse than older drivers. I don't think any test would help.
kristina20022002 says:
on Jul 08, 2009
I was waiting at the dmv one day to renew my plates on my car and I watched this elderly lady take her eye test (reading the chart), in the letter reading she did fine, but when there were flashing lights on the side of her she didn't notice them and the lady behind the counter told her, but gave her her licence anyway. That right there is a hazard. if you don't notice anything from the sides of your vehicle you should not drive, It would be just like putting blinders on.
ajannasmom says:
on Jul 08, 2009
I think Florida has a good idea. I've been saying for years that I think older drivers, let's say at retirement age and over should be re-tested annually for a renewal. And not the let's go around the block test. It should be a true, on the road, and highway test. I don't know that restricting people to an area is a good idea. That seems a bit harsh. The way I see it is that if you can pass the REAL test, then you should be able to drive anywhere.
grekanda29 says:
on Jul 09, 2009
I feel that tests should be given to determine each individual's capabilities. As far as age being a determinable factor, the problem with that concept is that each person ages differently. For instance, one 70 yr. old may be able to think very coherently and see very well, another person of the same age might not. I believe in treating people as individuals and not grouping everyone together. Before we get too hasty in our judgments of who's 'too old' to drive, let's remember that one day WE will also be senior citizens.
BlondieKAA says:
on Jul 09, 2009
I like Florida's idea. I understand not wanting to stereotype older drivers, but there do need to be safety measures put into place. I think that there need to be tests more frequently once drivers reach a certain age. I have several examples of why. My great grandfather drove well into his 90s, but he had trouble seeing. My family did all we could, but he insisted he had a right, since he still had a government issued license. There was an elderly lady who was killed in a car accident in my area, because she missed her exit and drove backwards on the freeway to get to her exit. So I won't say we should take licenses away from people based on age, but based on inability to pass a test. There are far too many drivers out there (young and old) who should not be on the roads!!
Groovyduo says:
on Jul 09, 2009
We've known for years certain abilities decline with age. And yes, you can test several people and get a wide range of abilities or handicaps. We don't all age the same; however, one can take the average age where these issues are prevalent and begin testing at that age. It's a preventative measure. It's no different than doctors saying one should get their first mammogram or colonoscopy at a certain age (based on the same: statistical data and averages). Plus, how much relief would be granted to loved ones. If you've ever had to take the keys from a parent or grandparent, then you understand. You might turn a blind eye to their decline for a bit, but you can't ignore neighbors telling you how your grandfather passed them on a hill (his was mental, but does it matter if the danger posed to themselves and others is mental or physical?). You break out in cold sweats thinking about the what ifs. I hope none have to experience that, or the aftermath of a wreck because of denial.
SiLvEr-StArS says:
on Jul 09, 2009
Well, I think they should of looked into this a long time ago. And I think the age limit should be 75+. Should not be or get behind the wheel. But I think people that are 75+ years of age should get some transportation, if they can't drive.
sparke30 says:
on Jul 09, 2009
Good Greif! I live in Arizona on the outskirts of Sun City...where older people go to retire. I deal with older drivers DAILY! I feel at the age of 60 people should be tested yearly and over 70 they should be tested 2-3 times a year! Eye site and reflexes tend to get worse with age and I cant tell you how many times I have almost been in an accident because of the older generation. And this would include me when I reach that age.
jenndta says:
on Jul 09, 2009
The problem with this is, that if they don't get any tickets or anthing, they are not tested for at least 4 years. When you get to a certain age, 4 years is too long. Our eyes change, hearing, reflexes, everything. The DMV should just pick an age whether it's 70 or whatever and start having these drivers tested at least yearly. It's for all of us. My mother is going to be 69 this month, I can honestly tell you, she's never been a good driver. So, it will get worse. Too many accidents have happened with older drivers and something needs to be done. We can't worry about hurting peoples feelings or some sort of discrimination. This is a safetly issue, not a right, but a privlidge!
milly79 says:
on Jul 09, 2009
The problem is thier is plenty of people out here that are young and can not drive or use the cars as weapons. I think as long as they drive and are safe who are we to tell them they can't. I hate the fact that when they get older they have noone around and their children or grand children should pitch in and help out like that we won't have to worry about it. I took care of both my parents, yeah it takes a tool on you but they made me so I thought it was just right to take care of them when the time came. Why put them in a home when they get abused and treated like a piece of garbage.
JanJan51 says:
on Jul 09, 2009
I think it should be a mandatory doctor's checklist to pass/fail for serious physical and mental abilities in order to keep a license. I suggest that anyone who has trouble walking should not drive because their reflexes don't work. Also, there are a lot of early stage alsheimer drivers that won't give up their license as they don't think anything is wrong with them. It's so hard for family to talk them out of driving anymore, but if the doctor tells them, it would be an easier transition.
bigjules911 says:
on Jul 10, 2009
As a 911 dispatcher I know firsthand just how much age affects driving. I've dispatched countless police, ambulance, and first responders to wrecks caused by elderly drivers. I'm not saying younger people don't cause accidents too, I'm just saying that as people get older they're health, eyesight, hearing, and reflexes deteriorate. There should definitely be more testing when people get to a certain age to ensure safer roads.
bamagal says:
on Jul 10, 2009
I think states need to retest all drivers every ten years. There are too many drivers on the road that don't know the rules. Many are just down right dangerous. As drivers get older, they should have to take a refresher course every couple of years, if not yearly.
madskit says:
on Jul 10, 2009
I think the state you live in should determine when a person needs a behind-the-wheel test. They can tell what the demographics are on accidents related to age, etc. All they have to do is check their records.
grumpyshar says:
on Jul 11, 2009
I don't feel that driving should have an age limit as long as the person has the mental and physical abilities to complete the task. I think there are many people on the road that are bad drivers to be honest I am probably one of them the point is you just have to be a defensive driver.
3bower says:
on Jul 14, 2009
I dont feel that there should be a cuttoff but I do think that once someone reaches a certain age they should be required to take the written and road test. Its funny how some of the elder folks loose their licence but are then allowed to drive a golf cart on the streets. I think is more dangerous for some.
sbfair says:
on Jul 14, 2009
If a person has competent driving skills I think they should be able to drive...regardless of 'elderly' age.
txdaisy10 says:
on Jul 14, 2009
I believe people should be tested as they get older... perhaps yearly. If they can pass the test, they can drive. My grandfather is 90 years old and still driving. He has missed stop signs, and forgotten where he has left the car several times. I do not think he should be driving any more, but he still had a driver's license, so it must be okay, right?
brandaojm says:
on Jul 14, 2009
I think an annual test for a certain age and older is a great idea! I believe the elderly should be screened for sight and hearing to be able to drive.
mselytia says:
on Jul 15, 2009
Of course the elderly should be tested! Especially on reflexes and reaction time. Safety HAS to be considered over priveledge! I've had a number of close calls with elderly drivers that were avoided because of MY fast reaction time. I shake my head in disbelief every time I pass by a little old person with thier huge sunglasses on,straddeling the yellow line going 20 miles an hour.It's so dangerous.
Damned says:
on Jul 15, 2009
I don't think there should be a certain age limit. I feel that they should be tested every couple years on their eye sight, hearing & speed of reflexes. They also should have papers from a doctor saying there has been no medical changes in their health, (example a stroke, or heart attack) that could cause them to become a dangerous driver. As they get older they could be tested yearly.
resa1320 says:
on Jul 16, 2009
We have all seen the old grandma or grandpa who can barely see over the wheel and is going 15 miles per hour on the freeway...LOL But if they can pass the test then who am I to tell them to stop driving. I will say this, I live in AZ and our driver license last like 40 yrs??? This could be a problem!
Saptember says:
on Jul 17, 2009
when you have a hard time seeing and have to pain when moving
littleme says:
on Jul 17, 2009
I agree when you have a hard time and being able to see or pain or just mindless I suppose
1mizzer says:
on Jul 17, 2009
I think sometimes it is not a matter of age, but their pyhical condition. My Fater is 90 y/o. He lives alone and he still drives! His mind is sharp also.
sariee32 says:
on Jul 18, 2009
Yes, I think that after the age of 70 drivers should be tested ATLEAST every year to determine if they are still fit to drive. There has actually been 5 accidents I can recall here in Massachusetts caused by elderly drivers. And that is since the beginning of June. On one occasion the woman drove into a crowd of people in Plymouth, 2 instances of drivers hitting pedestrians and 2 more driving into buildings. If these accidents were all caused by teenagers you bet there would be some changes in the law so why should it be any different for any one else?
rulistenin says:
on Jul 18, 2009
Last week, an 82 yr old friend of mine who has lived in this SMALL town for over 40 yrs was going to meet me and another lady at McDonald's after an event we attended. I found it odd that she asked to follow me, since we have all been there many times. We only had to drive about 2 miles, but I let her follow. I wondered if she really couldn't remember how to get there. I drove slowly and she still was not keeping up with me. Then, a cop whipped across the street and pulled in between my car and my friend's. He followed me all the way to McD's. Of course, I resumed normal driving speed. The cop didn't stop me, but I'm sure he called in my plates, etc. After parking, my friend was nowhere to be seen. The other lady meeting us and I waited out in the street for a long time before my friend finally came around the corner of a street in a completely different direction. Long story short, as fond as I am of my friend, she probably should no longer be driving.
Annam74 says:
on Jul 19, 2009
I think there should be a requirement to get re-tested yearly once you hit retirement age, whatever that should happen to be where you are. If you cannot safely maintain the flow of traffic, or do not see people or traffic signs, or cannot hear the sound of a horn, you should not drive. If you can't move quickly enough to respond fast in an emergency, you are a problem. This would not just be picking on a person because they are 70 or 80. Would also hopefully catch people whose reflexes are declining and they don't realize it. Of course, I also think that you should have to retake the drivers written exam regularly just to see if you are aware of new legislation (and old rules) - no matter how old you are.
barbara17jean says:
on Jul 19, 2009
I think this is a very sensitive issue that does not have a clear-cut answer. I believe all drivers should be given a series of vision, hearing and other health tests to determine if they can safely operate a vehicle. This would reduce the number of injuries and deaths caused to pedestrians and other innocent drivers.
taylormom07 says:
on Jul 19, 2009
In my opinion, senior citizens 70 and older should be required to take a driver's test again every 3 years or so. I also agree with testing their vision and hearing as well. My great grandpa is 90+ and eventhough his reflexes are so much slower now and his vision and hearing are poor, he still has a drivers license! He hit a car not very long ago while trying to park, and he didn't even notice! It scares us all to think there are other people like him on the road!
kailarl69 says:
on Jul 20, 2009
Honestly I agree with taylormom07. It would kind of be wrong to say that Senior Citizens shouldnt be able to drive but in a way it really makes sense. I just dont think its safe after a certain age unless you have a Health Record out of this world at age 65!
prt1984 says:
on Jul 20, 2009
well I have had some bad run in with a few ederly people where they almost hit me and if they had we would of been killed,I have also seen elderly got through drive thru windows at wendys go in the wrong way and all kinds of stuff so I dont think you should drive once you get 70 I had an uncle who was getting to where he couldnt remember where he was and stopped right on the interstate and that was bad he could of been killed but luckly a cop lead him home.I fear for their lives and also I dont think you should be able to get a permit until they are19 and licsense at 21 there are to many accidents from teen drivers today who only want to play around kids do not respect the road or take it serious.
jmrowe says:
on Jul 20, 2009
i think there needs to be a BEHIND THE WHEEL for senior citizens..its wrong to think that way but i have known so many older ppl that have had accidents and caused accidents and i just didnt see how they managed to do that. SOME ppl have slow reflexes and cant see as well as they did when they were younger...its pretty mean to say because if i was 65 or older AND they were thinking about passing a law such as this one...i would feel very sad
berned_you says:
on Jul 21, 2009
We really need drivers tests every 10 years, maybe every 2 years after age 60.
am_i_lost says:
on Jul 21, 2009
I don't think it should be an age it should be determined by each individuals ability. Testing more frequently as you get older mybe the ideal way to get this under control.
Britnev says:
on Jul 22, 2009
Thank you Florida for paving the way. Went I went for my first drivers license (20 years ago) an older couple were in line next to me. When they were called - both husband and wife went up. The wife, who was getting her license renewed, was asked to perform a vision test. Both myself and the staff assisting me watched as the husband coached her thru the vision test. Without him she would have failed. She could not even understand what was being asked. To think that she is out ( or was) out on the road driving is rather scary. I do not believe in age discrimination - but after a certain age, certain rules should be enforced for the safety of the driver and others.
ruralmom says:
on Jul 22, 2009
States definitely need to test every couple of years after age 60. Vision and reaction time become factors for driving safety as people age. I see many elderly people who can't even see over the steering wheel. Every time I have a near miss on the road, the driver who almost hits me or pulls out in front of me is obviously elderly. We all need to stay safe on the road. It is better for older drivers to get a ride from someone than to kill someone on the way to the store.
BayBay77 says:
on Jul 27, 2009
I think it depends on the person and the state they live in. If it's big city or busy roads I think the age should 70 rural areas 75.
CorneliusGal says:
on Jul 27, 2009
My grandfather turned 93 yesterday and although he is amazingly healthy (healthier than my 60-year-old dad even!) it scares me that he still drives. I don't completely agree in unrealistic age limits on drivers, but I definitely think they need to have stringent driving tests after the person passes a certain age. Although I hate to say it, sometimes it is not so much that the elderly person that is an unsafe driver, but other drivers reactions that puts everyone at risk. For example, an elderly person driving very slow will frustrate someone to the point that they unsafely pass, tailgate, etc. There is just too much road rage out there... or at least in my city! ;)
pcampo says:
on Aug 02, 2009
I don't think it should be based on a persons age b/c drivers of all ages can drive bad. I do agree with more frequent testing for drivers over 65 though. My stepdad is 83 & really healthy for his age and his driving scares the beejesus out of me! It terrifies me to think that he could hurt others or himself while driving.
Seritha89 says:
on Aug 14, 2009
I don't believe there should be a set age, but I do believe if you lack the ability to pass good judgment you should not drive. It bothers me when young or older people drive side by side on a two lane highway, or if they go too slow in the fast lane. These things are considered bad judgment. Also if you can't see without glasses, you sit too close to the steering wheel, you drive with two feet at all times, or you always have to have the high beams on, then you should consider letting someone else drive.
Janice183 says:
on Aug 14, 2009
I don't think there should be a set age that people are not allowed to drive. I can see the Motor Vehicle Administration reviewing the persons driving record after a certain age(maybe around 70) if that person is pulled over for a traffic voilation or has an accident. Not all people age at the same rate. There are 2o-30 year olds out there that should not be driving just as well as 90 year olds.
rtennyso1 says:
on Aug 15, 2009
In society we tend to judge everything on age.... for example alchohol and cigarettes you have to be 18 and 21 if people really want to get these items they will whether they buy them or get them from someone/somewhere. Whos to say that older people shouldnt be able to drive younger people drive more wild if you ask me they have the need for speed older people just tend to hold up traffic but i really think its a case by case issue that needs to be addressed.
diji1519 says:
on Aug 18, 2009
When they start having vision problems, lives are being put in danger.
One aspect of daily life that older people often find hard to give up is driving.