An elderly man is assisted by a woman as he steps out of a car. They are both smiling and appear to be engaged in a warm conversation, suggesting support and companionship during transport or rehabilitation care.

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When is the right time to stop driving?

For many of us, getting a driver’s licence is one of the first big steps toward independence. And for older adults, keeping that licence often feels like holding on to freedom itself. But at a certain point, the road may no longer feel as familiar-or as safe.

So, when should seniors stop driving? It’s a tough question, but asking it can be the first step toward keeping your loved one (and others) safe on the road – without taking away their independence entirely.

In this blog, we’ll explore the signs to look out for, how to have the conversation with compassion, and what other options exist to help seniors stay mobile and connected.

Why it matters

In Australia, elderly driver safety concerns are increasingly common. While many older adults are careful and experienced drivers, changes in vision, mobility, memory, and reaction time can gradually affect driving ability. The key is to recognise the signs early – before an accident occurs.

According to the Queensland Government, there’s no set age when someone must stop driving, but from age 75, Queensland drivers are required to carry a valid Medical Certificate for Motor Vehicle Driver at all times.

Common driving risk factors to watch for

No one wants to be the “bad guy,” but noticing small changes now can prevent big problems later. Here are a few driving risk factors which may indicate it’s time to reassess an older adult’s ability to drive:

Frequent close calls or minor accidents
Difficulty judging distances or gaps in traffic
Getting lost on familiar routes
Slow reaction times at intersections or when braking
Confusion between pedals or controls
Ignoring road signs or signals
Family or friends feeling nervous as passengers

These signs don’t automatically mean someone should stop driving altogether, but they do suggest it’s time for a conversation – and maybe even a test for senior drivers to reassess their capabilities. There are a number of private driving companies who can carry out driving assessments, on top of the required annual medical assessment.

How to talk about it (without starting a fight)

Let’s be honest – this isn’t the easiest topic to bring up. For many seniors, the suggestion to stop driving can feel like a loss of freedom or control. But with the right approach, the conversation doesn’t have to feel like an attack.

Here’s how to make it easier:

Pick a calm, private moment. No need to do this at a family BBQ!
Lead with care. Use “I” statements, like “I’ve noticed a few things that worry me…” rather than “You shouldn’t be driving.”
Emphasise safety. Make it clear the conversation is coming from love, not criticism.
Offer options. Reassure them this doesn’t mean isolation – just a new way of getting around.

Independence doesn’t have to end

The goal isn’t to take away freedom- it’s to protect it in a different form. These days, there are more alternative transport options than ever before:

Community transport services
Ride-sharing apps (with a bit of tech help, of course)
Public transport with senior concessions
Family or neighbour support systems

Transitioning to these options early helps your loved one feel in control—and makes the idea of giving up the keys a little less daunting.

Still unsure? Get a second opinion

Sometimes, hearing it from a family member is tough. In those cases, a GP, nurse or occupational therapist can help assess driving ability and suggest next steps. If the information comes from a neutral, credible source, your loved one might be more open to having a conversation about managing how and when to hang up their keys.

Working with Focused Health Care

So, when should seniors stop driving? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But by paying attention to the signs, starting the conversation early, and supporting the transition with kindness and planning, you’re helping your loved one stay safe, confident, and connected to the world around them.

At Focused Health Care, we work closely with families navigating these kinds of decisions. Whether it’s helping to monitor safety, explore alternative transport, or support daily independence, we’re here to help.

Contact our friendly team today to see how we can help.

*All information is general and not intended as a substitute for professional advice. Focused Health Care can consult with you regarding your individual health needs.