How many of us greeted one of the more senior members of our family as they arrived for the Thanksgiving feast and wondered how in the world that person was still able to drive safely? How many threw in an extra “watch for deer” to that person on the way out the door, just in case?

It may seem unfair to have such worries simply because of their age, but according to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Safety Administration, fatal traffic accidents involving drivers over the age of 65 increased by 4.7 percent between 2021 and 2022, to 7,870 nationwide. That number was the highest since NHTSA started keeping track in 1975.

That makes National Older Driver Safety Awareness Week, which ends Friday, a good opportunity to talk with friends and family, even if it takes a little courage.

In West Virginia, 77 of the state’s 264 — or 20.7 percent — of traffic fatalities recorded in 2022 involved drivers 65 and older, according to NHTSA. In Ohio, 251 of the state’s 1,275 — or 11.61 percent — of traffic fatalities recorded in 2022 involved drivers 65 and older, while in Pennsylvania, 269 of the state’s 1,179 — or 10.58 percent — of traffic fatalities recorded in 2022 involved drivers 65 and older.

Looking at the United States as a whole, 7,971 of 42,514 total traffic fatalities involved a person 65 or older. That’s 18.7 percent.

New York had the lowest rate — 7.2 percent (261 of 1,175 traffic fatalities) — while Oklahoma had the highest rate –24.51 percent (162 of 710 traffic fatalities.)

It’s a fact of life: As we age, physical, visual and cognitive functions can deteriorate. Meanwhile, our cars are getting more complex.

“Today’s vehicles are equipped with many safety features,” said Jack McNeely, director of West Virginia’s Governor’s Highway Safety Program. “Families and caregivers should take time to review vehicle manuals with older drivers to ensure they understand how these features work, if needed.”

Don’t stop there. Encourage them to get their vision and hearing checked. Ask their doctor to review medication for potential interactions or hindrances to driving.

Ask them to consider planning trips during the day. And be willing to say yes if they take your concerns to heart and ask for a ride; or help them find a way to get where they need to go.

“This can be a difficult time for all involved in these conversations,” the GHSP reminds us. “Understanding and empathizing can go a long way in easing the transition.”

The difficulty is more than worth it if our conversations save a life.