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AAA is emphasizing the importance of open and constructive communication to help keep senior drivers safe and mobile, which is why they named this week Older Driver Safety Awareness Week.

Montana State Trooper Patrick McLaughlin says there are a number of things older drivers can do to plan ahead and stay safe on the road. He says to make sure you allow plenty of time to get to your destination, and if the roads are bad from weather and you don't have to be out, don't be out. Also, if you're on new medications, make sure you're allowed to be operating heavy equipment.

For all drivers, young and old, it's important to be patient on the roadways.

"This would be a good time for other people to make sure that they're patient when they come across a slower driver," said McLaughlin. "Give them space. We don't know why they're going slow a lot of times, so it's really important to make sure we use common sense and exercise patience."

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, one in five people will be at least 65 years old by 2030, with nearly 10 million people 85 years old or older. An estimated 90% of this demographic will be licensed to drive.

AAA urges seniors and their families to communicate and address the issue of driving and aging.