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When an older driver is in an accident, the question is sometimes asked: Are they still physically able to drive safely?

Statistics indicate that most older adults are safe drivers with high safety-belt use and few citations for speeding, reckless driving or alcohol-related charges. However, medical conditions, medication usage and reduced physical function can increase the risk of accidents and injury among older adults.

While older drivers tend to be safer drivers, the rate of fatalities rises slightly after age 65 and significantly after age 75 because of increased physical frailty.

AARP Georgia is offering "We Need to Talk," a seminar designed to help families or other caregivers have sensitive and successful conversations with aging loved ones about driving safety. "We Need to Talk" was developed in cooperation with the Hartford’s Corporate Gerontology Group and the MIT AgeLab, based on their ongoing research on older drivers.

"We Need to Talk" recognizes that an older person may tie their sense of independence to their ability to get behind the wheel, making discussions about driving less difficult.

According to Ken Mitchell, AARP Georgia State Director, “The course provides a list of thirty warning signs of driving behaviors that could cause safety problems. It is important to observe driving over time and keeping notes to help you understand changes in driving ability. Look for a pattern of warning signs and for an increase in the frequency of occurrences.”

The seminar will help participants make objective observations of driving skills and identify opportunities to initiate conversations about driving safety and transportation alternatives. As surveys show, older adults typically prefer to speak confidentially about driving safety with someone they trust.

Call the state office today at 1-866-295-7281 to schedule a seminar in your community.