Jackie Boland, Community Outreach Director for AARP Hawaii helps us navigate the complicated issues surrounding senior driving, including knowing when to start limiting your own driving when the time comes, and how to approach difficult discussions with older family members when their driving becomes unsafe.

Intro 0:00

Personal 3:02

Tips

Older Drivers Are Generally Safe - 5:23

• Research shows as we age, we generally drive safer.

• Many seniors self regulate by cutting back on their driving.

• Beyond age 70, people start having more accidents per mile.

• Older drivers are more prone to serious injuries during accidents.

Complicated Issue - 5:46

• For many, driving represents personal freedom and control.

• Loss of driving can lead to depression and isolation.

• Seniors who are isolated are 50% more likely to develop dementia.

• The problem is acute in geographically isolated communities.

State Restrictions - 7:50

• Non impaired Hawaii seniors aged 72-79 qualify for a Kupuna license.

• A Kupuna license is valid for 4 years.

• An eye test is required to receive a Kupuna license.

• Beyond age 80, the license must be renewed every 2 years.

Warning Signs - 8:22

• Important decisions should not be based on one incident.

• Ride with a senior family member to observe their driving directly.

• Are they confident in their decision making when driving?

• Can they identify and follow all signs?

Mitigation - 9:30

• Everyone should self regulate based on their own impairments.

• Oder drivers should self regulate their driving.

• Limit driving in unfamiliar areas, during traffic, or on freeways.

• Limited driving can extend the years of driving freedom.

Difficult Conversations - 11:45

• Start the conversation long before taking someone’s car keys.

• Changes in health or medication could provide an opening.

• Open a dialog by asking for their opinion.

• A family member with the best rapport should approach the issue.

Alternatives - 13:55

• Alternatives to driving are location specific.

• Oahu residents enjoy a healthy public transportation system.

• Neighbor islands have a limited Bus system.

• Ride sharing apps are very easy to use.

Community Costs - 16:45

• Older adults are the most engaged and active community members.

• Removing the experience and wisdom of seniors costs a community.

• Multi-modal transportation options benefit a community.

Transitioning - 17:35

• Make use of public transportation with a senior family member.

• Point out the benefits of public transport and drawbacks of driving.

• Building comfort with public transportation helps ease the transition.

AARP Resources - 18:35

• AARP’s ‘Smart Driving’ program is a refresher course in driving safety.

• This program offers tips on self assessment of age related changes.

• The Smart Driving program also offers info on new technologies.

• This program is delivered live in the classroom or online.

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