For those directly engaging with older drivers, the goal should be serving the individual while adhering to state driver licensing agency requirements and encouraging safe driving. Your actions might include encouraging an older driver to get assistance in identifying changes in their driving habits or adjustments to their vehicle that will enable them to drive safely. Referrals do not necessarily mean the person needs to stop driving immediately. Each individual ages differently, and their ability to drive safely is not based on the number of years they have lived. Rather, safe driving is based on a driver’s cognitive, visual, and physical capacity. By providing older drivers access to screening and other resources, you can help drivers extend their safe driving experience and effectively transition to the time when they can no longer drive. Each state has different license renewal procedures. Counter staff training should include understanding state policy and procedures with regard to older drivers. Following are additional resources that staff can incorporate in daily education and resource requests by family members and older drivers:
- See how an older driver with medical conditions might have problems at the Department of motor vehicles—and on the road.
- The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) video: Drivewell: What To Do When You are Concerned About an Older Driver may help you start a conversation with an older driver you are serving.
- The American Occupational Therapy Association offers a video you can display in your waiting areas. Consider showing the video during Older Driver Safety Awareness Week in December.
In addition, you can offer the following handouts and educate counter staff about providing them to the customers they serve.
- The ChORUS Older Driver Transportation Planning Tool, is a printable handout that enables older drivers to explore alternatives to driving and plan for the day when they may not be able to drive safely.
- The ChORUS Older Driver Resources Handout lists a number of national and local resources that older drivers can access to obtain support and services.
- The Self-Assessment Caregiver Rating Tools Handout helps customers determine if a deeper conversation with their physician or another provider might be needed to ensure that they are driving safely.