How to know when to stop driving The important thing is to recognise these changes, especially the ones that may compromise safety, so that we can ensure we also take steps to reduce any risks. Even if we need to reduce our driving or we need to leave it to others, it doesn't have to mean an end to an independent, active life. Research from the Institute of Advanced Motorists shows that 30 years ago, only one in three men and one in 20 women aged over 70 held a driving licence. Today, three in four men and one in three women are licensed to drive. In the next 20 years, says the IAM, the number of male drivers over 70 will double, and that of female drivers will treble. New figures from Age UK reveal that two thirds of drivers aged 60 and over drive more than five times a week, relying on their car for shopping, visiting friends and family and getting to hospitals or the doctor. When asked why they wanted to continue driving as long as possible, older drivers said they liked being in control of where and when they travel (58 per cent), while 49 per cent say they simply enjoy driving. In one of the campaign videos, Valerie Singleton reminds motorists that their driving licence expires when they reach age 70, but that they can re-apply to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency for a new one. There is no retest or medical examination, but applicants must declare any relevant medical conditions and confirm that their eyesight meets minimal legal requirements. In the series of videos a doctor who specialises in geriatric care outlines how common conditions such as arthritis can affect a person's ability to drive safely. An eye specialist outlines how older drivers take longer to refocus when switching their gaze from the speedometer to the road ahead, and how their vision can perform less effectively in low light conditions. A police expert says that common mistakes by some older drivers include failing to give way and stay in lane, and misjudging time and distance when turning in front of other vehicles. Professor Andrew Parkes, chief scientist at the Transport Research Laboratory, says there are two particular 'lines of evidence' that may indicate it is time to give up driving. One is how they themselves feel in the traffic environment; are they starting to feel more stressed or confused or irritated by actions of other drivers? The other is how they feel about the reactions of passengers in their vehicle. They will know whether their passengers are feeling comfortable, whether they are criticising their driving. It all starts to build a picture which will give early warning signs that something needs to be looked at in more detail. GEM advises older drivers: "Get someone to sit with you and rate you, if you trust them. Or use some of the good training centres that won't take away your licence. Good examples are local authorities which usually operate appropriate schemes. Dr Charles Musselwhite, of Swansea University, added: "Rediscovering other forms of transport can be fun and exciting. The people who give up driving successfully are the people who plan the whole thing well in advance. It doesn't need to mean that you are reducing your travelling. More information (including how to sign up for a Gem Driver Assessment) at www.stillsafetodrive.org.uk.