Staying safe on the road gets more complicated with age—but it’s not always easy to know when to make changes.
That’s why we hosted “CarFit: Safe Driving as You Age,” on May 15th at Kensington Park.
From seat adjustment, mirrors, to safety belt check, this hands-on program helps older adults assess how well their car fits their current needs and abilities so they can continue driving confidently or start planning for the future.
As part of the Kensington Park difference, we regularly bring expert-led events like this to our community. It’s one more way we support not just residents but also the families and caregivers who walk this path with them.
In this article, we’ll cover what safe driving for older adults really looks like, how to recognize the signs that it might be time to stop driving, and why choosing a community like Kensington Park—with reliable, supportive transportation services—can help everyone breathe a little easier.
Safe driving for older adults: When independence meets caution
Driving equals autonomy. For many older adults, it’s the last symbol of independence—and giving it up is one of the hardest transitions.
But the truth is: aging affects driving. Even for people in excellent health, the body and brain change in ways that impact safety behind the wheel.
Slower reflexes, reduced peripheral vision, limited neck mobility, or side effects from medications can all make driving more difficult.
Safe driving for older adults means being realistic. It’s not about fear or judgment—it’s about awareness. Knowing when a loved one needs support, and having options in place makes this transition less overwhelming.
How driving ability changes with age
Every person ages differently, but here are some common changes that can affect driving:
- Reduced night vision, glare sensitivity, or trouble reading signs
- Difficulty hearing horns, sirens, or nearby vehicles
- Stiff joints and muscles can make it hard to turn the wheel or check blind spots
- Slower responses make it difficult to brake quickly or avoid hazards
- Memory loss, confusion, or slower processing speeds may impact decision-making on the road
How to determine if an elderly person is safe to drive
You might notice something’s changed with your loved one’s driving, but how do you know if it’s time to take action?
Watch for the following warning signs that your loved one may need help with transportation.
1. Dents, scrapes, or unexplained damage
Minor accidents or unexplained damage to a car may signal that coordination, depth perception, or reaction time is impaired.
2. Getting lost in familiar areas
If your loved one starts to confuse directions or gets disoriented in neighborhoods they’ve driven for years, it’s time to pay attention.
3. Delayed reactions or trouble with traffic flow
Slowing at green lights, struggling to change lanes, or being honked at frequently are all clues that driving ability may be slipping.
4. Increased anxiety or irritation while driving
Many older adults won’t tell you directly that driving feels harder, but if they seem nervous, easily startled, or frustrated behind the wheel, take note.
5. Medications that cause drowsiness or confusion
Many common prescriptions can impair driving, such as blood pressure, pain, or anxiety medications. Check labels and consult a physician.
6. Friends, neighbors, or other drivers raising concerns
Sometimes others see what we miss. If someone you trust says your loved one’s driving is becoming unsafe, take it seriously.
When to step in—and how to do it with compassion
At Kensington Park, we’ve supported many families through this delicate moment. You’re not alone.
Conversations about driving are often emotional. It’s not just about a car—it’s about autonomy, pride, and routine. That’s why stepping in requires sensitivity.
Tips for approaching the conversation:
- Start early: Don’t wait for an accident. Bring it up gently when you first notice changes.
- Focus on safety: Frame it as protecting them and others, not punishing or controlling.
- Use a neutral third party: A doctor, occupational therapist, or program like CarFit can help provide an objective evaluation.
- Offer alternatives: The transition is easier when you have solutions, like transportation services or help from family and community members.
When driving ends, community support begins
Life doesn’t have to shrink for older adults who can no longer drive—or no longer want to drive. In fact, at Kensington Park, it can expand.
Our community offers full-service transportation options so residents can stay connected without relying on family or feeling isolated.
Transportation isn’t just about getting from point A to point B. It’s about helping residents maintain their lifestyle—dining out, seeing the doctor, visiting a grandchild’s recital—without driving.
Kensington Park provides:
- Scheduled group transportation for outings, appointments, and errands
- Private rides for individual appointments or family visits
- Escorted transportation for residents with memory loss or mobility challenges
- Support from team members who make every ride feel safe, respectful, and familiar
Memory care & mobility: a special consideration
For those living with Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia, driving becomes unsafe long before physical signs emerge.
Wandering, confusion, and impaired judgment make driving not just risky, but dangerous.
At Kensington Park, our memory care neighborhoods provide structured support for mobility, transportation, and safety.
We build personalized routines that allow residents to engage with the world while staying protected.
We also work closely with families during this emotional transition—helping you plan, adjust, and feel confident about retiring from driving.
Your trusted partner in independent living, assisted living, and memory care
At Kensington Park in Maryland, we offer a full continuum of care—from independent and assisted living to two levels of memory care—so residents can remain in one supportive community, even as their needs change.
Whether your loved one needs occasional help or more comprehensive support, we’re here to provide personalized care with dignity and compassion.
Contact Kensington Park today to learn how we can support your family’s journey with expert care and thoughtful guidance every step of the way.