There are many factors that can drive a person's concern about just how safe it is for an older family member to be behind the wheel.

Although studies show that older drivers are, as a group, safe drivers, as people age, driving can become a somewhat more difficult and challenging task, especially for those with physical and cognitive health problems.

1. To compensate, older drivers typically drive fewer miles and avoid difficult or demanding driving conditions such as rush hour, inclement weather or nighttime hours.

2. While many people can drive safely throughout their later years, others may have to significantly curtail and even give up driving.

3. While minor issues may be overcome with changes in driving behavior or physical fitness, more serious behaviors may require immediate action.

4. Some minor warning signs to watch for include:
* Decrease in confidence while driving
* Incorrect signaling
* Scrapes or dents on the car or garage.

5. More serious indicators are:
* Failure to notice traffic signs
* Near misses
* Confusion at exits.

6. Warning signs that require immediate action by the family are:
* Confusing the gas and brake pedals
* Stopping in traffic for no apparent reason.