When to Hand Over the Keys: A Senior’s Guide to Safe Driving and Staying Independent in Central Indiana

Deciding whether to continue driving as we age is one of the most personal—and often most difficult—choices older adults face. For many seniors, driving represents far more than just getting from place to place. It's a symbol of independence, freedom, and self-reliance. But as physical changes, health conditions, or safety concerns begin to surface, the question of when—or if—it's time to stop driving becomes unavoidable. It’s not just about mobility; it’s about dignity, identity, and lifestyle. Navigating this decision with honesty, support, and good information is key to maintaining safety and quality of life, even if that means eventually handing over the keys.

How Do You Know When It’s Time to Stop Driving?

There’s no single age when someone should stop driving. Instead, it comes down to personal safety, ability, and confidence behind the wheel. Some warning signs include:

• Difficulty seeing at night or in poor weather

• Slower reaction times or confusion at intersections

• Frequent “close calls” or getting lost on familiar routes

• Anxiety while driving or avoiding certain roads

• Medical conditions or medications that impair alertness

• Trouble with foot control, steering, or turning the head

If you—or a loved one—are experiencing any of these signs, it may be time to reduce driving or explore alternatives.

Tips for Safer Driving (If You’re Still on the Road)

For seniors who are still driving, consider these strategies to stay safer:

• Avoid night driving — Reduced visibility and glare can be dangerous

• Skip rush hour — Less traffic means less stress and lower accident risk

• Stick to familiar routes — Know your roads and reduce surprise decisions

• Maintain your vehicle — Keep windows clean, lights bright, and brakes responsive

• Stay on top of health — Vision, hearing, and reflexes all play a big role

• Drive defensively — Leave extra space, and assume others will make mistakes

• Check medication side effects — Drowsiness or dizziness can impair your ability to drive

Take a Safe Driving Class for Seniors

Even experienced drivers benefit from a refresher. The AARP Smart Driver Course helps older adults stay current with traffic laws and road conditions, adjust for age-related changes, and learn defensive driving techniques. Many insurance companies even offer discounts for completing the course.

To find a course near you or register online, visit states.aarp.org/in-driver.

If You Stop Driving — How to Stay Mobile in Central Indiana

Giving up driving doesn’t mean giving up freedom. Central Indiana offers a range of transportation services designed for older adults who need to get to doctor appointments, grocery stores, pharmacies, or social events.

Here are some options:

1. IndyGo & IndyGo Access (Marion County)

• Fixed-route public bus system serving Indianapolis and surrounding areas

• IndyGo Access offers door-to-door service for seniors and people with disabilities

• Contact: 317-635-3344 (General), 317-614-9260 (Paratransit/Access)

• Learn more at indygo.net

2. CICOA Way2Go Transportation (Marion & Surrounding Counties)

• Rides for seniors 60+ to medical appointments, errands, and more

• Includes shuttles, Door2Door service, and cross-county options through My Freedom

• Contact: 317-803-6153

• Details at cicoa.org

3. My Freedom Program (via CIRTA & CICOA)

• Affordable rides for people 60+ or with disabilities in several central Indiana counties

• Medical, grocery, social, and wellness rides across county lines

• Contact: 317-803-6131

• Learn more at cirta.us

4. Indiana PathWays for Aging – Verida Transportation

• For Medicaid-eligible seniors enrolled in PathWays, including waiver programs

• Covers transportation to covered medical services, pharmacy trips, and more

• Contact your Care Coordinator for details on how to access transportation services

5. Uber & Lyft

• Convenient app-based ride services available in most parts of Central Indiana

• Great for flexible travel — whether it’s last-minute appogogintments or lunch with a friend

• If you’re not tech-savvy, ask a family member to help you get started or schedule rides for you

• You can also use GoGoGrandparent to help you book rides. To learn more visit their services, visit their website at https://www.gogograndparent.com/ or give them a call at (855) 464-6872.

Want to Start Planning Early? Here's How to Begin

• Talk with family or your doctor about concerns and options

• Test alternative transportation before giving up the keys entirely

• Take a driver safety course for honest self-evaluation

• Create a list of transportation resources you trust

• Focus on freedom, not loss — this is about finding safe, reliable ways to stay independent

Final Thoughts: Independence Isn’t Just About Driving

While the decision to stop driving can be emotional, it's a deeply personal choice. It's one that must be made with the driver in question, along with their spouse and inner circle. It's also a chance to rediscover other ways to stay active and connected. Central Indiana offers the tools — safe driving classes, supportive transportation programs, ride services — so you can transition smoothly, on your terms.

It’s not about giving something up — it’s about choosing what’s safest, healthiest, and most empowering for this season of life.