As you get older, your brain needs more time to process information, making it more difficult to ignore distractions. The good news is that mature judgment, years of driving experience and good driving habits often can compensate for some diminished cognitive abilities.
Cognition is the ability to remember information like locations or destinations and recognize and respond to things such as traffic signs and pavement markings. When driving, it involves being able to focus and make sound decisions in a hurry to avoid a crash.
Learn more about severe cognitive impairments and how driving can be affected. Also, learn how to prevent aging-related cognitive decline by getting plenty of physical exercise and keeping your mind active.