KISS legend Gene Simmons’ Malibu crash offers a surprising lesson on aging safely

When 76-year-old Gene Simmons told deputies that he passed out or fainted while driving before crashing his Lincoln Navigator into a parked car on Pacific Coast Highway on Tuesday around 1 p.m., it could have been a tragedy. Instead, the KISS legend's characteristic humor and transparency about the incident offer valuable lessons for anyone navigating the complexities of aging and medication management.

His SUV veered into oncoming traffic and traveled across several lanes before hitting a parked car.

By Wednesday, Simmons was already posting on social media with his typical self-deprecating wit: "Thanks, everybody, for the kind wishes. I'm completely fine. I had a slight fender bender."

He added with a chuckle, "Especially to those of us who are horrible drivers. And that's me."

When medications change, everything changes

The incident was not solely related to driving ability.

Simmons’s wife, Shannon Tweed, told NBC4 that her husband had recently experienced a change in his medical prescriptions, highlighting a common challenge many older adults face: even small medication adjustments can have unexpected effects.

Shannon also noted that Gene needs to drink more water—something he is not particularly fond of—which becomes especially important when managing heart conditions and adapting to new prescriptions.

The situation serves as a reminder that healthy aging often depends on maintaining consistent, simple daily habits.

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Living openly with atrial fibrillation

Simmons has spoken openly about his health challenges, including his atrial fibrillation (AFib) diagnosis.

He explained on "The Doctors" in 2016 that he first discovered the condition while on tour, when the stage lights and heat triggered symptoms.

"I started to get dizzy and perspire and short of breath," he recalled, noting that since then he has managed the condition with plenty of rest and by drinking lots of liquids.

His openness serves as an example for other older adults living with chronic conditions.

By discussing his experience, Simmons shows that acknowledging and managing health issues can help people continue doing what they love, even when faced with occasional challenges.

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The bigger picture on medication-related driving incidents

Simmons’ experience highlights a growing concern among older adults.

Although the details of his medication change were not disclosed, the timing suggests it may have played a role in his brief loss of consciousness while driving.

The good news is that Simmons promptly sought medical attention and followed up as needed.

He was briefly hospitalized for evaluation and then released to recover at home.

This response represents the recommended course of action after experiencing a loss-of-consciousness episode.

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Rock and roll resilience at 76

What makes this story noteworthy is not just the accident itself, but what it reflects about aging with resilience and determination.

The news arrives just before a planned KISS reunion event in Las Vegas this November, marking the band’s 50th anniversary and their first performance together since retiring from touring in 2023.

Rather than letting the incident slow him down, Simmons seems focused on moving forward.

The upcoming Vegas reunion is expected to celebrate not only KISS’s legacy but also the enduring spirit that drives people to keep pursuing their passions, regardless of life’s challenges.

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The dehydration connection

This is not the first time Simmons has faced a health concern linked to dehydration.

In 2023, he experienced weakness during a KISS concert in Brazil, later explaining that the combination of humidity and not drinking enough water caused the issue.

"I was dehydrated and was forced to sit for a song," he told fans afterward.

For older adults, particularly those managing heart conditions such as AFib, maintaining proper hydration is especially important.

Dehydration can aggravate heart rhythm issues and increase the likelihood of fainting, which may have played a role in this recent incident.

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Looking ahead with optimism

What stands out most about Gene Simmons’ response to this incident is his determination not to let it define him or disrupt his plans.

His quick recovery and lighthearted attitude about the “fender bender” reflect a balanced approach to aging—acknowledge challenges, learn from them, and keep moving forward.

For anyone managing health changes or adjusting to new medications, there is value in his outlook.

Sometimes the best response to life’s unexpected moments is not to retreat, but to adapt, adjust, and continue pursuing what brings fulfillment and joy.

The rock and roll may be a little quieter these days, but the show—as Gene Simmons proves—definitely goes on.

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Key Takeaways

• Gene Simmons, 76, fainted while driving and crashed his SUV, but he recovered quickly and shared his experience with humor and openness, offering lessons about aging and medication management.
• His wife, Shannon Tweed, explained that recent prescription changes and dehydration may have contributed to the episode, emphasizing how small medication adjustments can impact older adults.
• Simmons has long been open about managing atrial fibrillation (AFib), using rest and hydration to control symptoms—a reminder for seniors that transparency and proactive care support independence and safety.
• The musician’s response underscores the importance of regular medical follow-ups, staying hydrated, and approaching health challenges with resilience, positivity, and a willingness to adapt.

What health management strategies have worked best for you as you've gotten older? Have you experienced challenges with medication changes? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below—your insights could help a fellow reader navigate their own health journey safely.