Our population is aging, no doubt about it.

In 2013, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation said there were 1,816,186 licensed drivers over age 65 in the state. That's an increase from 1,735,337 in 2012 and 1,640,830 in 2011.Know that getting older doesn't automatically make you a bad driver, but aging does affect our driving skills.Joints stiffen, muscles weaken, reaction time slows, medications may leave you slightly drowsy, all of which will have an impact when you get behind the wheel of a vehicle. Changes in eyesight and hearing could also have a negative effect.Those changes don't necessarily mean you have to give up the freedom of driving your own vehicle. But, you should make changes to ensure you are driving safely.• Check with your doctor to see if your health or any medications may interfere with driving safely. Have annual vision and hearing tests. Stay physically active and exercise to improve strength and flexibility.• Plan ahead by driving on streets you already know. Limit your trips to places close to home and easy to get to. Avoid risky spots such as on and off ramps and left turns. Add extra travel time when roads are wet or during the winter. Don't drive if you are tired or stressed. Avoid driving at night if glare is a problem for you.• Always wear your seat belt. Stay off the cellphone. Avoid distractions such as eating, listening to the radio or having conversations. Make sure you allow enough space between your car and others on the road. If someone follows you too closely, let them pass, even if it means pulling over. Keep your windows clear. Use the headlights at all times.• Make sure your car is equipped with air bags. Routinely check and replace your windshield wipers. Keep your headlights clean and make sure they are aimed properly.• Take a defensive driving courseKnowing when to give up driving is difficult, but there are some warning signs.• Other drivers honking at you all the time• Having multiple accidents, even if they are fender-benders• Getting lost, even on roads you know• Family and friends worried about your driving• Not being as confident about your driving• Having trouble staying in one lane• Confusing the brake and gas pedals or having trouble moving your foot from one to the other.If you recognize any of these signs, it is time to let go of that steering wheel.