The older adult driver

More adults aged 65 and older will be driving in the next few decades. Many older drivers are safe behind the wheel and do not need intensive testing for license renewal. Others, however, have physiologic or cognitive impairm ents that can affect their mobility and driving safety. When an older patie nt's driving competency is questioned, a comprehensive, step-by-step assess ment is recommended. Many diseases that impair driving ability can be detec ted and treated effectively by family physicians. Physicians should take an active role in assessing and reducing the risk for injury in a motor vehic le and, when possible, prevent or delay driving cessation in their patients . Referral to other health care professionals, such as an occupational or p hysical therapist, may be helpful for evaluation and treatment. When an old er patient is no longer permitted or able to drive, the physician should co unsel the patient about using alternative methods of transportation.