One or more of these warning signs indicate that an older adult is having potential driving problems -- and they may signal that, at the very least, you'll need to closely monitor her driving:
- New nicks and scrapes on the car
- Increased car insurance rates and/or traffic tickets
- Reluctance to get behind the wheel, or tension or exhaustion after driving
- Neglecting to fasten seat belt
- Discomfort at the wheel, craning forward, or showing other signs of discomfort
- Seeming tense and preoccupied or easily distracted
- Seeming to be unaware of traffic lights, road signs, pedestrians, or the reactions of other motorists
- Tailgating or drifting toward the oncoming lane or into other lanes.
- Reacting slowly or with confusion in unexpected situations
- Frequent signs of irritation from other drivers, such as honking
- Showing signs of disorganization and/or disorientation in other areas of life; for example, leaving the stove on, losing important documents, forgetting key dates