The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) and the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) are highlighting the challenges faced by drivers aged 65 and older during Older Driver Safety Awareness Week. The event, which runs from December 1 to December 5, aims to encourage discussions about driver safety among families, friends, and medical providers.
Interim MassDOT Secretary & MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng emphasized the importance of safety for all road users. “The first week of December marks Older Driver Safety Week,” he said. “It allows all of us to remind ourselves and our loved ones that some may need a little extra help navigating the roadways or utilizing alternative transportation options.”
Registrar of Motor Vehicles Colleen Ogilvie added, “Driving is an important part of everyday life for older adults, and it is important to recognize when changes need to be made to prioritize safety.” She encouraged conversations about driver safety during this awareness week.
According to the AAA Traffic Safety Foundation, most older adults outlive their ability to drive safely by seven to ten years. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) advises that age alone should not determine driving ability but highlights that changes in vision, reflexes, physical fitness, and cognition can affect safe driving.
Families can support older drivers by attending medical appointments with them and encouraging open discussions about any driving-related concerns. The RMV provides resources such as free Safe Driving workshops, including “Shifting Gears” for defensive driving tips and “The Driving Decision” for advice on assessing driving abilities.
In Greater Boston, the MBTA offers travel instruction services for those transitioning away from driving. Riders aged 65 and older can access reduced fares with a Senior CharlieCard. Outside Boston, Regional Transit Authorities offer similar programs.
For more information on how older drivers can maintain safe mobility, visit the NHTSA’s website or explore resources provided by the American Occupational Therapy Association.
Information from this article can be found here.
