As the number of diabetes diagnoses continues to climb in England, with 8% of adults over 16 now affected and up to one in three still undiagnosed, the implications for road safety—particularly among older drivers—are becoming increasingly urgent.
Recognising this growing concern, road safety and breakdown organisation GEM Motoring Assist has stepped up with a practical set of tips designed to help older drivers with diabetes remain safe and confident on the roads. The initiative comes amid statistics showing that for every 1,000 drivers, as many as six severe hypoglycaemic episodes (hypos) and 40 non-severe hypos can occur monthly—events that can severely impair driving ability.
“Diabetes cases are rising and older drivers are at increased risk,” says James Luckhurst, head of road safety at GEM. “However, better awareness, early action and proactive management are key to reducing risk on the roads.”
Understanding the Risks
Driving with diabetes poses specific challenges, especially for those who experience complications such as peripheral neuropathy or hypoglycaemia. Peripheral neuropathy, a common consequence of prolonged high blood sugar, leads to nerve damage that causes numbness or tingling—especially in the hands and feet. This can diminish pedal control and awareness while driving.
Meanwhile, hypos—sudden drops in blood sugar levels—can strike with little warning, leaving a driver disoriented or even unconscious. Severe hypos require external help for recovery and are particularly dangerous behind the wheel.
Planning, Awareness and Family Support
GEM’s advice centres on three pillars: planning, awareness, and family involvement.
1. Plan Ahead:
Before embarking on any road journey, particularly a longer trip, GEM recommends checking your blood sugar levels, ensuring you are well-fed, and scheduling breaks at regular intervals. These pauses provide not only physical rest but an opportunity to reassess how you’re feeling—crucial for early detection of any diabetic complications.
2. Know the Symptoms:
Older drivers with diabetes should be familiar with the warning signs of both high and low blood sugar. GEM also advises keeping a testing kit and fast-acting sugar snacks (like glucose tablets or juice) within reach.
3. Involve Your Family:
Relatives and caregivers can play a valuable role. Encouraging regular medical check-ups, discussing any changes in driving confidence or health, and staying informed about medical advice helps ensure safer driving decisions.
“Families can play a key role in supporting older drivers with diabetes,” adds Luckhurst. “Encouraging regular health check-ups and discussing any changes in driving ability makes a real difference.”
Legal Considerations and DVLA Guidelines
Understanding the legal responsibilities tied to driving with diabetes is also crucial.
- Type 1 Diabetes: Drivers must inform the DVLA and will usually be issued a medically-restricted licence. Regular blood glucose monitoring—both daily and in relation to driving—is a legal requirement.
- Type 2 Diabetes on Insulin: The same rules apply as with Type 1. Drivers not using insulin may not need to inform the DVLA unless complications such as vision issues or severe hypos occur.
- Severe Hypos: Any episode where assistance is needed must be reported to the DVLA immediately. Two or more such episodes in a year mean you must stop driving until advised otherwise.
Foot Care and Driving
A frequently overlooked aspect of diabetic care, especially for drivers, is foot health. Peripheral neuropathy can result in ulcers and infections, potentially leading to severe mobility issues. GEM urges regular foot check-ups to identify problems early, helping prevent complications that could limit a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely.
Final Thoughts
Driving represents independence, especially for older adults. But with diabetes increasingly affecting this demographic, taking steps to manage the condition is vital—not just for personal safety but for the safety of all road users.
Thanks to clear, empathetic advice from organisations like GEM Motoring Assist, older drivers with diabetes can remain confident and in control, so long as they stay informed, vigilant, and supported.
For more information on diabetes and driving, visit the DVLA’s website.
