Am I Still Safe to Drive? 5 Signs You Should Check
Quick Summary: When to Consider a Driving Check
Thinking about safe driving? Here’s what to watch for:
✅ You feel less confident behind the wheel ✅ Family gently raise concerns or offer to drive ✅ You’ve noticed a few near misses or moments of confusion
An OT-led driving assessment isn’t about taking away keys—it’s about keeping you confident, safe, and independent on the road and being informed of what you can do.
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Has Driving Started to Feel Different?
John always loved the freedom of his car. It was more than just getting from A to B—it was picking up grandkids, heading to bowls, and knowing he could go where he wanted, when he wanted. But lately, roundabouts felt like puzzles. The other day, he took a wrong turn on a familiar road, and his daughter gently asked, “Dad, are you sure you’re still okay to drive?”
If you’re wondering about your own driving skills—or supporting someone who might be—you’re not alone. At Occupational Therapy Brisbane, our team regularly supports people through this very question. Our comprehensive Senior Driver’s Test in Queensland page can walk you through what’s involved.
These moments matter. For older adults, they may signal it’s time to stop driving or simply pause to reflect. Here are five quiet but important warning signs to consider.
5 Warning Signs It May Be Time to Reassess Driving
You feel overwhelmed by busy roads – especially intersections or areas you once navigated with ease.
You’ve had near misses or minor accidents – a scrape, a bump, or even just a close call.
You find yourself forgetting where you’re going – even on routes you’ve driven for years.
Family members express concern – it might be subtle, like offering to drive more often.
New medications are affecting your alertness – drowsiness or slowed reaction time can silently affect your ability to drive.
How to Support an Older Loved One with Driving Changes
It’s common for an ageing parent or elderly loved one to be unsure about their driving abilities. Some may worry about losing independence. Others may refuse to stop, even if it’s no longer safe. Having open conversations—supported by clinical guidance—can help ease these decisions.
Remember: the goal is to stay safe, not to judge. You may discover you’re able to keep driving with minor adjustments—or that it’s time to explore alternatives to driving.
Changes to health, medications, or cognition don’t automatically mean you need to give up driving. But they can signal it’s worth looking at your ability to drive safely. Some elderly people simply avoid driving at night or drive on streets you know to increase comfort and confidence.
For others, it may be time to explore new routines. This is especially true for people with dementia or those in the early stages of dementia, where impaired driving becomes a growing concern.
Common Questions About Driving Assessments
Q: Will I lose my license if I book an assessment? A: Not at all. Our role is to help you keep driving as long as it’s safe. In short, it’s about understanding your current abilities, identifying risks, and deciding whether they can be managed or whether you may no longer be safebehind the wheel.
Q: What if I’ve already stopped driving? A: We can help you explore what’s next. That might include retraining to return to the road—or finding ways to get around that suit your lifestyle.
When Should Seniors Stop Driving?
There’s no single answer. But warning signs to look for include: changes in reaction time, trouble with road signs, or confusion while navigating. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and supported by the National Institute on Aging, it’s important to know when to stop—especially for drivers aged 65 or older.
If you’re concerned that your driving or that of a loved one may no longer be safe, you’re not alone. Many older adults are more likely to reassess their routines than you think. With the right support, they can make driving decisions that help them stay safe.
Let’s Make a Plan Together
Feeling unsure about your driving? Or maybe someone you care about has gently raised the topic. It’s okay to have questions—and it’s smart to get support.
Want peace of mind for you or a loved one? Our OTs specialise in gentle, practical driving checks.
