How old is too old to operate an RV? That is to drive, say, a 40 foot motorhome, for an example.
The fact is, there is no age restriction to drive any vehicle providing you are old enough to drive and have a license to do so. Basic health, both physical and mental, are a requirement for any age. Failing eyesight generally is more present in older people, but, regardless of age, all people are judged the same. You pass or you don’t.
The loss of confidence, not skill, may be a large factor for those that consider hanging up the keys as they get older. So what causes this lack of confidence in driving as people age?
Well, generally, eyesight changes over the years, not that greatly in daylight, but more in the reduced light of driving at night. This is relatively normal and may limit or eliminate driving after dark. This fits well with an RV anyway, as the majority of owners confine their travel to daylight.
If a 35 year old motorhome owner hits a post while backing into a campsite, it is an unfortunate accident. If he drives away while still plugged into the power pedestal, it was just a stupid mistake. But if the driver is 75 or 80 years old, it is because he is too old! Not only is that what people think, but the aging driver may believe it too. We all make mistakes. Was this really a result of your age? May be, if you can determine where you went wrong and it relates to exactly that, your aging body. But, more than likely, no! It was just an accident. So, like a person of any age, be more careful next time.
A friend of mine is 85 years old. He drives his 45-foot motorhome to Florida every winter and takes several trips during the summer. Because of his age, he must re-certify his driver’s license each year. He is a very good driver and will probably continue for a few more years. He is, however, aware that one day he will have to hang up the keys and has spoken to me in that regards. He plans to have one of his sons move the coach to and from Florida when that time comes. Until then, he will continue to enjoy the open road.
So, no, you are never too old to drive a motorhome. As long as you have the health and are fit to operate the vehicle, you can keep cruising. When you are ready, hanging up the keys does not have to be the end of enjoying your RV life. There are alternatives. In the meantime, enjoy!