Driving, vision, and hearing: staying safe without giving up independence
Topic: Home Safety & Falls
Reading time: 2 min
Driving is more than transportation—it’s independence. Changes in vision, hearing, reaction time, or medication effects can make driving harder. The goal is safety and a plan.
Signs it may be time for a check-in
- More close calls, honks, or “surprises”
- Difficulty with night driving or glare
- Getting lost on familiar routes
- Slow reaction to sudden stops
Easy safety upgrades
- Update vision prescription and address cataracts if present.
- Get hearing checked (it affects awareness).
- Avoid driving when sleepy or after new medication changes.
- Choose daylight routes and familiar roads when possible.
If someone brings it up: Try to hear the concern without shame. The conversation can be about “safer driving” before it becomes about “no driving.”
Make a “Plan B” early
- Ride share accounts set up in advance
- Community transit options
- Family/friend driving schedule
- Delivery for groceries and medications
What to ask your clinician
- “Could my medications affect driving safety?”
- “Should I be evaluated for vision or cognitive changes?”
Ask your clinician (starter questions)
- “What’s the most likely explanation in my case?”
- “What serious causes are we ruling out?”
- “Could any medications or supplements contribute?”
- “What’s the simplest next step?”
- “What should make me call you sooner or seek urgent care?”
If you want to prepare for a visit, try the Doctor Visit Checklist. For general support, browse Topics.