Ways to stay sharp behind the wheel

Simple tips and a driving evaluation may help keep you and other motorists safer on the road.

Image: © Feverpitched/Thinkstock

Being able to drive a car is a ticket to freedom, no matter what your age. You don't have to rely on anyone else to get to a supermarket, do errands, meet with friends, or go to a doctor's appointment.

But sometimes, physical changes in older age jeopardize your ability to drive, and you may not realize it. "I hear it a lot — older drivers think they're fine, but their children, doctors, or even co-workers suggest that they get an evaluation," says Amy Donabedian, an occupational therapist and certified driving rehab specialist with the driving assessment program at Harvard-affiliated Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital.