Understanding the Statistics for 87-Year-Old Drivers
While specific data for 87-year-olds is not readily available, statistics for the broader 85 and older demographic provide the best insight. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 59% of individuals aged 85 and older maintained a valid driver's license in 2020. More recent data from Hedges & Company in May 2025 indicates that 69.1% of those 85 and older held a license. These numbers show that a majority of people in this age bracket continue to drive, though the percentage is lower than for younger seniors. The trend over time shows older adults are driving later in life than in previous decades, supported by better health outcomes and advancements in automotive safety features.
Factors Affecting Driving Ability and Safety
Driving safely in one's later years is not solely about age but rather a combination of individual physical and cognitive factors. Several age-related changes can affect a person's ability to drive safely:
- Vision Changes: Decreased visual acuity, especially at night or in low-light conditions, can make it harder to read road signs and see pedestrians. Conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration can further impair vision.
- Hearing Loss: Difficulty hearing sirens, horns, or vehicle noises can reduce a driver's awareness of their surroundings.
- Slower Reflexes: Reaction time tends to slow with age, making it more challenging to react quickly to unexpected situations.
- Stiffness and Pain: Arthritis and other joint issues can make it difficult to turn the head to check blind spots or move the foot between the gas and brake pedals quickly.
- Medication Side Effects: Many older adults take multiple medications, some of which can cause drowsiness, dizziness, or slowed reaction times, impacting driving safety.
- Cognitive Decline: Memory loss, confusion, and reduced attention can affect a person's ability to navigate and make safe driving decisions, especially in complex situations like busy intersections.
Comparison of Older vs. Younger Drivers
While many people assume older drivers are the most dangerous on the road, statistics paint a more complex picture. A direct comparison reveals distinct differences in driving behavior and crash outcomes.
| Driving Metric | Older Drivers (70+) | Younger Drivers (35-54) | Insights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crash Frequency | Lower overall crash rates, | Higher overall crash rates, | Older drivers often reduce their driving, avoiding high-risk situations like night driving or bad weather. |
| Fatal Crash Rate (per crash) | Higher fatal crash rate | Lower fatal crash rate | Increased fragility in older bodies means they are more vulnerable to serious injury or death from a crash, regardless of fault,. |
| Common Errors | Failure to yield, improper surveillance, misjudgment of gaps, issues at intersections | Speeding, impaired driving (DUI), distraction, | Older adults' errors are often tied to physical and cognitive changes rather than deliberate risky behavior. |
| Driving Habits | Often self-regulate by driving less at night, avoiding rush hour and highways | More likely to engage in risky behaviors | Self-regulation is a key safety strategy for many older adults. |
Proactive Safety Strategies for Senior Drivers
For older adults determined to continue driving safely, there are many steps that can be taken to mitigate risks:
- Regular Health Check-ups: Schedule routine vision and hearing tests to address any impairments. A doctor can also review medications for potential side effects that could affect driving.
- Stay Physically Active: Regular exercise can improve the strength, flexibility, and coordination needed to operate a vehicle safely.
- Refresher Courses: Take a mature driver course offered by organizations like AARP or AAA. These courses update skills and may offer a discount on car insurance.
- Adapt Driving Habits: Limit driving at night, in bad weather, or during heavy traffic. Plan routes that avoid complex intersections or rely on well-known roads.
- Modify Your Vehicle: Consider adapting your vehicle with features like larger mirrors, pedal extenders, or advanced safety technology to compensate for physical changes,.
The Difficult Conversation: When to Stop Driving
Deciding to stop driving can be challenging for an older adult, as it represents a loss of independence. Family members and loved ones often find themselves in the position of initiating this difficult conversation. It’s important to approach the topic with empathy and a focus on safety and mobility alternatives rather than just taking away the keys. The conversation should involve observations, such as frequent near-misses, getting lost, or loved ones feeling nervous as passengers. A doctor's evaluation can provide objective medical insights to support the decision.
Exploring Transportation Alternatives
Maintaining mobility and independence is still possible without driving. A wide array of transportation options exist to help older adults stay connected to their communities.
- Public Transportation: Buses, trains, and subways are affordable options in many cities.
- Para-transit Services: Many transit authorities offer paratransit for individuals with disabilities, including many seniors.
- Ride-Hailing Services: Services like Uber and Lyft offer flexible, on-demand rides.
- Volunteer Driver Programs: Local nonprofits often coordinate volunteer drivers who can provide door-to-door service.
- Senior Community Transportation: Retirement communities and senior centers often provide shuttle services for residents.
For more detailed information on safe driving practices for older adults, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) offers extensive resources. Visit their page on Driving Safely While Aging Gracefully for additional guidance and tips.
Conclusion
While the exact figure for what percentage of 87 year olds still drive is unknown, data suggests a significant portion of the 85+ population remains active behind the wheel. However, this demographic faces unique challenges related to physical changes and crash vulnerability. By taking proactive steps, staying informed, and planning for future transportation needs, older adults can maintain independence and safety for themselves and others on the road.
