A large majority (84%) of people ages 65 and older drive at least once a week, and 62% drive most days, according to respondents to a new University of Michigan national poll.

But less than half of these older drivers have made a plan for a time down the road, when changes in their health might make it less safe for them to drive.

Even fewer knew they could create a formal plan for stepping away from the driver’s seat when the time comes. And very few have talked with a healthcare provider about driving as it relates to their health.

The new poll also found that among those who had driven at least once in the past six months, 81% said they were very confident they can drive safely now, though 18% said they are only somewhat confident and 1% were not very confident.

Looking ahead, 51% were only somewhat confident in their ability to drive in the next five years, while 43% were very confident. Another 5% were not confident.

Even with a sense that their driving ability might change as they grow older, about half (54%) of respondents ages 65 and over don’t have a plan for when they are no longer able to drive. Among those who have been behind the wheel in the last six months, a sizable majority -- 68% -- said they avoid driving under some conditions.

Only 6% of respondents said they had ever talked with a healthcare provider about their driving, and only16% were familiar with the idea of an advance driving directive, a document that helps a person indicate their driving preferences in case of future health issues, and identifies someone to help with decisions about stopping driving.

The authors note that the poll findings have implications for organizations that provide services to older adults, and for local, state and federal policymakers around the US. The findings also have implications for family members and healthcare providers who could have conversations with older adults about their driving.

To access the national poll, as well as findings specific to Michigan, click here