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Advice for older drivers

Photograph of older couple sitting in car

Many years of driving contributes to being an experienced and resilient driver. Health changes may impact on our driving and travel choices. Good health is essential for safe driving. 

Responsible driving tips and checks

Book and attend regular health check-ups

Health check-ups will help you monitor:

  • Eyesight
  • Hearing
  • Overall health

96% Norfolk residents over 60 surveyed in 2024 confirmed they attend regular eyesight check-ups. This is positive given most of the information we gather to drive safely is visual. 

Complete self-regulation checks

Reflect on your driving, including any near misses, difficulties you encountered or changes you have noticed with your: 

  • Eyesight 
  • Reaction time 
  • Responses when anticipating hazards 
  • Judging speed  
  • Ability to complete over shoulder checks

This strategy will help you to be aware of any changes to your health and ensure you get support to travel safely and independently for longer. 

Stay physically active

Engage in regular physical activity. This can improve strength and flexibility, making it easier and safer for you to drive. Read more about staying active and healthy in later life.

Know your medications

Some medications can affect driving. It is important you only drive when you are fit and focused. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist about the side effects of any medications you take and always follow medical advice.  

Inform DVLA when something has changed

You must report some medical conditions to Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). To find out what these are go to the medical conditions, disabilities and driving page on DVLA website.

Plan and prepare your journey  

Keep up to date

Make sure you're up to date with:  

  • In car technology. Car technology is developing all the time. Some vehicle assistance systems can support safe driving. Read the manual, set up navigation and adjust settings before your journey starts.   
  • Changes to the highway code

Of Norfolk residents over the age of 60, who responded to our survey in 2024, 57% reported that either:

  • They had not read the highway code since the changes in 2022
  • Or, they could not remember reading the highway code since the changes in 2022

Alternative ways to travel

There may come a time when driving is no longer the safest option, or you may choose different ways to travel to become more active. 

Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) offer a self-assessment checklist for older drivers. It is designed to help you consider whether your driving is changing.

It is important you have a plan before that time comes. It will help you prepare and understand what travel choices are available across our local community. 

More information:

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