The poll was done in February 2025 by NORC at the University of Chicago for the Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation. It included 2,883 people aged 50 to 97. A Michigan analysis used 1,353 people aged 50 to 95.
The results show that 84% of people 65 and older drive at least once a week and 62% drive most days. Only 10% had not driven in the past six months. Many drivers are confident now: 81% said they are very confident they can drive safely today.
Despite this, 54% of drivers 65 and over do not have a plan for when health changes make driving unsafe. Women and people over 75 were more likely to have a plan than men and those 65 to 74.
Difficult words
- poll — a study that asks people questions
- analysis — a study of data or information
- confident — sure that you can do somethingvery confident
- despite — used to say something happens anyway
- plan — a decision about future actions
- unsafe — not safe causing possible harm
- likely — probably true or expected to happen
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you know anyone aged 65 or older who drives most days? Why or why not?
- Why do you think many older people feel confident about driving?
- What could be a simple plan for someone who cannot drive because of health changes?
Related articles
Child Marriage is a Systemic Failure
Child marriage in Pakistan is a serious issue affecting many girls, denying them their dreams and impacting their health. The article discusses the legal framework, societal challenges, and hopeful changes regarding this issue.
Citizen Science Data Can Help Achieve Sustainable Development Goals
Citizen science can improve health and well-being data for Sustainable Development Goals. It involves the public collecting important information for researchers.
Brazil approves single-dose dengue vaccine
Brazil’s Butantan-DV single-dose dengue vaccine was authorised on 26 November for people aged 12–59. Trials with 16,000 volunteers showed high efficacy, and the vaccine will join the national programme in early 2026.
AI Could Train the Next Generation of Surgeons
Artificial intelligence may assist medical students by giving real-time feedback on their surgical skills. This tool aims to help address the shortage of surgeons.
Better MRIs May Be on the Way
A new physics-based model could improve MRI scans and diagnostics.
Nearly 1 Billion People Lack Access to Disability Aids
Almost one billion people with disabilities need better access to assistive technology like wheelchairs and hearing aids. A recent UN report highlights the urgent need for more support in this area.