Have you ever stopped to think about how our way of getting around changes over the years? Today we want to talk about something close to home for us: road safety for our seniors. Because we'll all reach that stage sooner or later.

The General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) has recently presented through the University Institute of Traffic and Road Safety Research (INTRAS) and the Association of Medical Examination Centers (ASCREME) Road Health Council Guide specifically aimed at older drivers and their immediate families. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to improve road safety for older adults, a group that represents an increasingly significant percentage of the population.

According to calculations by the United Nations (UN), in By 2050, one in four people in Europe will be over 65 years old.This aging population has a direct impact on mobility, as psychophysical abilities (such as vision, reflexes, and attention span) can be affected over time.

The guide offers Practical recommendations for older drivers, and, in addition, it also includes tools for family members and caregivers, helping them to detect possible risks; protocols for making decisions about driving, such as when it might be advisable to stop driving; and self-assessment questionnaires on cognitive and physical abilities and driving skills.

Safe driving is a responsibility of all of us.

Road safety for the elderly is a collective responsibilityAs a society, we must encourage that our road environments are adapted to the needs of all ages. Of course, we must practice respect and empathy towards older drivers. It is also necessary become aware of physical and cognitive changes associated with age.

The dilemma of when hang up the keys

There are no easy answers here. It's not strictly a question of age, but of ability. In Spain There is no age limit for driving, but from the 65 years old, renewal deadlines are shortened to ensure that the driver maintains the necessary skills:

• For tourism and motorcycle permits: renewal every 5 years.
• For professional permits: renewal every 3 years.

The medical examination is the same for all ages, but if a condition is detected that could affect driving, the validity of the license may be reduced.

In addition to this guide, the DGT is developing various resources, such as training videos about everyday situations, new traffic signs and road safety; in-person workshops and intergenerational programs to promote more inclusive traffic; and online courses for professionals (health workers, caregivers, educators) who work with older people.

This is about taking care of each other.

It's sadly common to see an elderly person hurrying through a traffic light that's on top of them. Therefore, When driving, apply the rule and logic of courtesyBrake early enough at zebra crossings; don't make pedestrians (older or not) nervous, as they are more vulnerable; be patient if another driver is having trouble, for example, parking; and always obey the speed limit.

So, as a younger person, the next time you see an older driver or pedestrian, don't glare at them with your headlights, respect their pace, and remember that one day you'll be in their shoes.

And if you're a family member, talk about it thoughtfully, offer alternatives to driving if necessary, and support them in the process.

Because in the end, It's about ensuring that we can all continue to move safely.

We must all keep in mind that today we may be the ones helping, but tomorrow we will be the ones who need it.

For more details, you can download the complete guide at DGT website.