Summary
It may be time to stop driving when changes in vision, physical ability, memory, judgment, reaction time, or medication effects make driving less safe or more stressful. There is no single age at which someone should stop driving; instead, the decision should be based on a person’s actual ability to drive safely and comfortably. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends planning ahead for mobility changes so older adults can remain safe, mobile, and independent as their transportation needs evolve.[1] Exploring alternatives such as family rides, public transportation, paratransit, and accessible community transportation can make the transition easier while preserving independence. For older adults across eight Front Range counties, Via Mobility Services has offered that kind of safe, accessible transportation since 1979.
As Colorado’s population ages, more families will face this decision. [Add a verified statistic, e.g., the share of older adults who don’t drive, or Via’s annual ride totals.]
Driving can represent freedom, independence, and control over everyday life, so deciding to stop can be an emotional process. Planning transportation alternatives before driving becomes unsafe can help older adults maintain access to healthcare, errands, social activities, and the people and places that matter most.
Recognizing When Driving May No Longer Be Safe
Several changes can indicate that it is time to reconsider driving, particularly when they begin affecting a person’s ability to respond safely to everyday situations. Changes in vision, physical functioning, memory, reasoning, and medication effects can all affect driving ability as people age.[1]
Occasional mistakes do not necessarily mean someone needs to stop driving immediately. However, repeated problems such as getting lost on familiar routes, confusing the gas and brake pedals, missing traffic signals, having frequent close calls, or struggling to react to unexpected situations deserve attention.
A healthcare professional can also be a valuable part of the decision. The CDC recommends discussing driving ability with healthcare providers and having medications reviewed, because some medications can cause dizziness, drowsiness, or slower reaction times that may affect driving safety.[1]
Signs It May Be Time to Reconsider Driving
- Frequent close calls or minor crashes
- Getting lost on familiar roads
- Difficulty seeing road signs, pedestrians, or other vehicles
- Trouble reacting quickly to unexpected situations
- Increased anxiety or confusion while driving
Understanding the Emotional Side of Giving Up Driving
Stopping driving can be emotionally difficult because a driver’s license often represents independence and freedom. Someone who has driven for decades may worry that giving up the car means losing control over their schedule or becoming dependent on family members.
That’s where community transportation can help. Via drivers often become familiar faces who know riders by name, so getting a ride feels less like depending on someone and more like being part of a community that shows up for you.
These feelings are completely normal, so focus the conversation on maintaining mobility rather than simply taking away driving privileges. The goal is a transportation plan that lets the person keep doing the things they enjoy and need to do.
Starting the conversation early can make the transition less overwhelming. The CDC’s MyMobility Plan encourages older adults and their families to think ahead about how they will remain mobile and independent if driving eventually becomes unsafe or impractical.[2]
Ways to Make the Transition Easier
- Focus on safety and independence rather than age
- Involve the older adult in transportation decisions
- Try alternative transportation before giving up driving
- Create a plan for medical and essential trips
- Maintain access to social and recreational activities
Exploring Transportation Options After Driving
Alternative transportation can help older adults remain independent after they stop driving. Depending on mobility needs and location, options may include public transit, paratransit, community transportation, volunteer drivers, rideshare services, or rides from family and friends.
Accessible transportation is especially valuable for people who have difficulty walking, use mobility equipment, or cannot comfortably use conventional public transportation. Paratransit and other specialized services provide accessible vehicles and assistance tailored to eligible riders.
Via Mobility Services provides through-the-door service, meaning drivers can help riders from their door to the vehicle and into their destination. Riders with mobility devices are welcome, and Via keeps backup drivers and vehicles ready, so trips happen reliably.
The best transportation plan often combines several options rather than relying on just one. Having multiple ways to travel provides flexibility and reassurance when someone needs to get to an appointment, go grocery shopping, meet friends, or take part in community activities.
| Transportation Option | May Be Helpful For |
| Via Mobility Services | Older adults and people with disabilities who want accessible, reliable, through-the-door rides in the Front Range |
| Accessible Public Transit | Independent riders who can use fixed-route services |
| Community Transportation | Seniors and people needing specialized local mobility |
| Family or Friends | Occasional or flexible transportation needs |
Planning Ahead Can Protect Independence
Planning transportation before someone has to stop driving can make the transition much smoother. Rather than waiting for a crash, medical event, or sudden change in driving ability, older adults and families can gradually identify alternatives and become comfortable using them.
A transportation plan can include regular rides to healthcare appointments, grocery stores, pharmacies, social activities, and other important destinations. It can also identify who to contact when a regular transportation option is unavailable.
Most importantly, stopping driving does not have to mean stopping an active lifestyle. With reliable transportation alternatives, older adults can continue managing their schedules, maintaining relationships, participating in their communities, and living independently.
What to Include in a Mobility Plan
- Regular medical and healthcare transportation
- Transportation for groceries and essential errands
- Options for social and recreational activities
- Backup transportation for unexpected needs
- Contact information for local mobility providers
Need help building a plan? Via’s mobility management team offers education, referrals, and travel planning to help you or a loved one explore every option. Stopping driving doesn’t mean stopping living. Via Mobility Services is here, and we’ll be there, to help you or a loved one stay connected to the people and places that matter. Call 303-447-2848 (Español: 303-444-3043) or visit viacolorado.org to learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is there a specific age when someone should stop driving?
No. Driving ability varies from person to person, so the decision should be based on safety, physical and cognitive abilities, and the individual’s ability to operate a vehicle responsibly. - What are some common signs that an older adult should stop driving?
Repeated close calls, getting lost on familiar routes, difficulty seeing, confusion, slow reactions, and frequent traffic mistakes can all be warning signs. - What transportation options are available after giving up driving?
Options may include paratransit, public transportation, community transportation programs, rideshare services, volunteer drivers, and rides from family or friends. - Can someone maintain independence without driving?
Yes. A reliable transportation plan can help people continue accessing healthcare, shopping, employment, social activities, and other important destinations without driving themselves. - How can families talk to someone about stopping driving?
Approach the conversation with empathy and focus on safety and continued independence. Involve the person in identifying transportation alternatives instead of presenting the decision as simply taking away their car.
Citations
- Older Adult Drivers, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Accessed August 20, 2026, https://www.cdc.gov/older-adult-drivers/about/index.html
- MyMobility Plan, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Accessed August 20, 2026, https://www.cdc.gov/older-adult-drivers/mymobility/index.html
