I have been thinking recently about driving as we get older, and what we can do to drive at an acceptable level or risk for as long as possible. (I never use the word 'safe' because driving is never without risk.)
A recent article from the McMaster University Optimal Aging Portal, which produces excellent briefings based on the best current evidence, looks at practical ways to reduce the risk of accidents as we age.
It summarises three key steps:
Protecting our senses: regular vision and hearing checks become increasingly important with age.
Participating in driver training: refresher courses can sharpen skills and rebuild confidence.
Incorporating smart technologies: features like lane departure warnings, adaptive cruise control and parking assist can genuinely help.
Here is what they say about smart technologies:
“In-vehicle technologies that aim to make driving easier and safer are increasingly available. These include in-vehicle information systems, such as intersection warning systems and lane change or lane departure warning systems, as well as advanced driver assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control and assisted parallel parking. Some smart, in-vehicle technologies can improve the safety and comfort of older drivers, so long as they match the driver’s abilities and don’t become distracting or too mentally demanding to use.”
From 60 onwards, it pays to take active steps to reduce the risks of driving, and staying physically fit is one of the most useful. We think of fitness as having four dimensions: strength, stamina, suppleness and skill. All four help us drive well and react quickly when it matters. Mental fitness counts too, and that is exactly what driver training can build.
But remember: the greatest risk driving poses is not on the road at all. It is the sitting it has brought into our lives. So every driver should also walk briskly for at least 30 minutes a day.
Read the full article:
https://www.mcmasteroptimalaging.org/blog/detail/blog/2026/07/29/3-ways-to-support-safer-driving-as-we-age