Older Driver Safety Awareness Week kicks off today and runs through Friday. Its mission? To raise public awareness about the safety issues older drivers face while remaining active members of their communities.
Related: What's the Most Dangerous State for Older Drivers?
The annual December initiative of the American Occupational Therapy Association provides an in-depth look at five issues confronted by mature drivers. The AOTA website offers articles, podcasts and links to resources that address the physical and cognitive changes of aging, how to discuss diminished driving abilities, driving fitness evaluations, assistive devices and staying engaged in one's community despite not driving.
As baby boomers age, the U.S. is bracing for a "silver tsunami" in 2025 — when a quarter of licensed U.S. drivers will be 65 or older, according to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. That age group hit more than 40 million drivers — or 18.4 percent of all licensed drivers — in 2015, according to Federal Highway Administration statistics. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention had predicted we wouldn't hit that number until 2020.
So, it's more important now than ever for families and friends of aging drivers to help them plan for future transportation needs — before the issue is critical. AOTA's lineup of topics provides guidance, as do our stories below.
Adaptive Devices Can Ease the Drive, Ride for Seniors
Car-Buying Tips for Senior Drivers
Program Helps Seniors Find Perfect Vehicle Fit
10 Helpful Safety Features for Mature Drivers
Driver Refresher Class Reaps More Than Monetary Benefits
How to Have 'The Talk' With Older Drivers
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