Been sitting and thinking...

[goufgators]

Sometimes I sit and think. Other times, I just sit! Recently, while 'sitting and thinking', I was wondering how much longer I'll feel safe driving our MH. I'm now 74 and in reasonably good health but know that at some point I'll have to stop driving the MH not only for my safety but for the safety of others on the road. So, was wondering... at what point (age) you decided it was time to hang up the keys (if you've made that decision) or at what age you expect that to happen. I know that issue varies greatly with everyone because none of us know what health or physical condition we might be in either tomorrow or the future. My question might not be answerable except by those who have already 'hung up the keys' but would like to hear thoughts/opinions about this issue. Thanks!

[egh33]

Turn 81 next month, just completed a trip from Tex. to Ohio. and back. Even went through Nashville, TN. I think it's worse than Dallas. Had no problems.
Just had my yearly wellness check-up All blood work is right where it should be
Getting along just fine. Plan on taking a few more trips before I quit.

[rctour]

I've been driving and flying for 50 years now, the roads and skyways have changed significantly sense then, the biggest change for me has been my reaction time.

Over the years I have learned to plan my approach to my destination with greater diligence. When in traffic I purposely calm myself down and watch those around me for traits in the behavior so I can anticipate their next move. I continually scan my area and watch what is happening way ahead of my vehicle, I have never been in any kind of accident.

For me it's all about my brain and reaction time, which has slowed down significantly over the last 50 years but still is better than most. When my reaction time slows to a point where I notice I'm endangering others, I'm done!

[rctour]

1

[jerry8mm]

My uncle is 92 and he still drives his 38 foot DP. He has been to NJ and to FL recently. I told him to let me know when he was going to be on the road so I could stay in the campground.

His wife is 90 and they like to go. I think RVing gets in your blood.

Jerry Minchey

[scdiver]

DW and myself are 63. We need some upgrades to the home, I need a new car, but we decided to get a MH and start traveling while we still can. We have some minor health issues but we know those issues can get worse sooner rather than later.

We decided our priorities and decided to travel while we can.

[J-Rooster]

What a great question! First off I don't think because I'm getting information from a idiot! Secondly, if your medically fit to drive it's your call! I'm dreading that day because I'll feel like I'm losing a freedom, but if I know in my heart of hearts It's not safe for me to drive I will have to do that. My Mom had to quit driving at the age of 80! Just couldn't do it safely anymore! Good Luck, Rooster

[olfarmer]

I'll soon turn 70 am in great shape, don't wear glasses except to read fine print, and not yet retired although I will be soon. I too think about how long I will be able to drive the motorhome. I just drove it 400 miles two days in a row and did fine but I can tell I am not quite as sharp as I used to be so I don't drive at night if I can avoid it and usually don't drive as long each day as I used to. I don't think there is a specific age when one should quit driving as it depends on the individual but I think it is a good idea to take things a little easier and be aware that we are older and have more limitations than when we were younger. My wife is partially disabled and does not drive the MH so I also worry what she would do if something happens to me on the road. I have seen people that drove too long but also see younger people that are terrible drivers. Hopefully we will know when it is time to hang up the keys or someone will tell us.

[dieharder]

I think that once you start losing confidence behind the wheel, it's time. Whether it's confidence in yourself or others on the road is not important. When getting to your destination and doing what we do isn't fun anymore, then why do it? Until then, enjoy every darn second because we can't predict when that day will be.

[goufgators]

brandyspaw wrote:
I think it depends on each individual. Heck, Don Garlits is 82 and he's trying to set a 200mph record in an electric dragster. Its all about each particular person's abilities.

Don's not driving that 'electric dragster' through downtown Atlanta on I-75... :)!

[rgatijnet1]

When not on the road I participate in a competitive bowling league. I know that this is not the same thing as driving an RV, but I am an above average bowler. I figure when I can no longer carry a 200+ average, and can no longer throw a 300 game, my physical capacity has diminished. I would rather notice my skills have gone downhill at some other place than on the road with an accident.
Right now I have no problem driving 500 miles a day, I have 20-20 vision with great night vision, and am approaching 70.

[john_bet]

My dad quit long distances at 78. I have a friend who just back from Reno in thier MH and still drives a school bus. He is 83 and would swear he is only 72. I am 68 with very little gray/white hair and can do 300 miles a day with our 5th. I drive a school bus too and actually enjoy it. 10 special needs kids. One of my uncles sold thier 5th when he turned 75. I believe you will know when the time is right.

[nbking]

I just turned 77 this month. I have noticed little things in my driving which suggests lack of attention. I also find that the rest of the traffic is so much faster than me. No real physical problems that would interfere with driving, but I have been uncomfortable driving the past year.

My decision is made easier by the fact that I do not like to drive. I should have born a millionaire and been chauffeur driven everywhere I wanted to go. I would prefer that.

I have my motor home up for sale, with a good prospect coming next week. I will miss the freedom that comes with a motor home, but the worry about the possibility of an accident that could injure both of us is always on my mind.

I will limit my driving to a weekly trip to Walmart for the next year, then put my other vehicle up for sale and stop driving.

Better to stop driving then to try to deceive ourselves that our skills are nearly as good as they have ever been.

[darsben]

The problem with self evaluation is that your skills deteriorate slowly over time so that you do not realize it.
I submit the individual is the worst judge of when it is time to quit. There needs to be an outsider to do an honest evaluation.
To think otherwise is just fooling yourself

[Daveinet]

Count the number of brain farts you have in one week. When you see that starting to go up, that maybe the time. Are you starting to have near hits? That may be another sign.

I remember an interview the local TV station had with a guy from our church about old people driving. He was still driving at the time. He was 108. He did eventually quit driving and lived to be 115.