“I think it might be time for them to hang up the car keys.”

This is a sentiment that we’ve all heard in relation to an older loved one, or family friend and although sometimes it may come in jest, there is an element of truth or concern when it comes to those who continue to drive beyond the age of 75.

Of course, although the statement comes from a place of love and care for the person and the desire for them to continue to live a long and happy life, quite often it isn’t received that way.

The most common response is defensive, with the person feeling almost insulted that a task that they have been doing for years is now coming under scrutiny.

In Queensland the requirement is for anyone over the age of 75 to have a valid medical certificate in order to continue to drive.

This certificate is required to be renewed yearly by their doctor.

Learn more about requirements for senior drivers

Of course, people of any age who have medical conditions also require medical clearance from their doctor in order hold a valid licence.

RACQ believes that if people are medically fit to drive (assessed by their doctor) then age is no barrier to them continuing to hold their licence.

During my time as an Education Officer at RACQ I’ve had the pleasure of meeting motorists of all ages and experience levels.

One of my most favourite memories was when a 90-year-old lady in Rockhampton came up to me at one of my events and proudly exclaimed that she had just passed her medical and to celebrate had treated herself to a brand new car.

Quite often, people don’t realise that medically, things might be starting to change that could have an effect on their driving ability.

Something that may be easily observed by others (such as posture, vision impairment or mobility) may be dismissed as just troublesome or annoying rather than serious.

To help, the RACQ has developed the Experienced Driver Self-Assessment Questionnaire which can help to identify some of these medical concerns in their very early stages.

This can be found on our web page on older driver programs.

The page also mentions the Years Ahead program which the RACQ delivers to community groups (such as PROBUS and National Seniors).

If you do have someone in your life whom you are concerned about, the first step is trying to understand what taking away their licence would mean for them.

Read a member’s story on their tough decision

Quite often there is a fear of a loss of independence and freedom, particularly when in areas where isolation might be a factor.

The best advice is to work with them to find out what other options are available.

These can involve taxis (some of which have subsidy schemes), community services or public transport options.

Replacing just one trip a week that would usually have taken place with the car provides them with the confidence, skills and knowledge required to perhaps start using some of those services more frequently.

Once familiar with other options they might find themselves not needing the car at all.

I’m reminded of the gentleman I met at one of our events who came and introduced himself and told me that after many years, he had chosen to go to a new doctor and that the new facility was “next to the RSL”.

When I questioned why the location was significant, he proudly explained that it allowed him to catch the courtesy bus to and from any appointments (plus the possibility of a nice lunch)!

Note: If there are serious safety concerns regarding someone’s driving ability, then Queensland Police should be notified.

By RACQ Education Officer Dave Terry