Video: Elderly Drivers Get Behind-the-Wheel Tips

Elderly drivers have spent decades behind the wheel, and as the effects of aging settle in, recognizing when it's time to give up their keys can be a lifesaving decision.

In an attempt to keep everyone safe on the road, the OASIS Senior Center held a mobility expo Wednesday and provided more than 50 senior citizens with eye-opening information. AARP reports that by 2030, one out of every five drivers in California will be 65 or older. 

"There's an oncoming silver tsunami," said Richard Kohr, a representative from the Department of Motor Vehicles. "The DMV wants senior citizens to maintain their mobility, independence and lifestyles as long as they can do so safely."

As people get older, they experience physical and mental changes that can affect driving skills, and Kohr explained that problems arise when drivers don't realize it's time to move  into the passenger seat. He recalled the 2003 incident in Santa Monica in which an 86-year-old man plowed his car through a farmers market, killing 10 people. 

"I remember when that happened," resident Gwen Sweeney said. "I hope it never happens again."

Since then, a bright light has been focused on the issue of when senior citizens should stop driving. Although determining when to retire from driving depends on the individual's physical and mental health capabilities, there are some signs drivers should be aware of.

"If you get lost while driving, if you think others drive too fast, if other drivers honk at you a lot or if you have trouble turning the steering wheel, those are good indicators," Kohr said.

Other warning signs include drifting across lane markers or into other lanes, late braking, having difficulty finding your parked car and driving too slowly or too fast. Tips to help keep up the physical and mental strength required for safe driving include regular exercise, healthy eating and mental exercise, such as reading and crossword puzzles. 

The DMV also recommends the following senior citizen driver safety tips:

1. Make sure you are well-rested while behind the wheel.

2. Stop frequently to rest on long trips.

3. Give yourself time to react to changes in road conditions.

4. Stay at least three seconds behind the car in front of you.

5. Keep your eyeglasses, car windows, mirrors and headlights clean.

6. If you cannot see over the steering wheel, sit on a pillow or cushion, and make sure you can still reach the gas and brake pedals.

If you are interested in learning about alternative methods of transportation, check out the Orange County Transportation Authority program for senior citizen drivers here.