Driving Tips for Seniors

Driving Tips for Seniors: Always Exercise Extreme Caution While on the Road

As we age, many activities of daily life can become more difficult and downright dangerous, whether when in our home, on the road, or elsewhere. In most cases, the best advice is to take it “slow and steady” and remain cautious at all times; especially when driving. 

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), older adults can take several steps to stay safe on the road, including:

• Exercising regularly to increase strength and flexibility.
• Asking your doctor or pharmacist to review medicines — both prescription and over-the counter — to reduce side effects and interactions.
• Having eyes checked by an eye doctor at least once a year. Wear glasses and corrective lenses as required.
• Driving during daylight and in good weather.  
• Finding the safest route with well-lit streets, intersections with left turn arrows, and easy parking.  
• Planning your route before you drive.
• Leaving a large following distance behind the car in front of you.
• Avoiding distractions in your car, such as listening to a loud radio, talking on your cell phone, texting, and eating.
• Considering potential alternatives to driving, such as riding with a friend or using public transit.

 

5 Additional Driving Tips

There are a number of other ways seniors can be prepared to remain safe while driving. Here are five:

1. Be aware of your medications — As mentioned above, it’s important to understand your medications and what effect they may have on your driving. When you get a new prescription, tell your doctor that you’re still driving and ask about potential side effects. Some medications can cause eyesight limitations, drowsiness, and other issues. Also, make it a point to read about the medications you’re presently taking to ensure none of them could interfere with your ability to drive.

2. Tinted windows — Tinted windows can be an especially useful feature for elderly drivers. Sun glare can cause problems for all drivers, young and old. Instead of relying on sunglasses, a mild window tint can help reduce glare.

3. Use a GPS navigation system — Trying to look for a destination while driving can cause a number of traffic issues, including distracted driving. Many seniors are uncomfortable with technological gadgets, but once you get used to using a navigation system, you’ll see how much easier and safer it makes driving. There are even certain GPS systems for helping Alzheimer’s patients.

4. Drive defensively — Take extra measures to drive safely, like leaving adequate space for the car in front of you to allow for proper braking distance, paying extra attention at intersections, and making sure you’re driving appropriately for the flow of traffic. Avoid distractions, such as talking on the phone while driving or trying to read a map, even if it’s a GPS on the car; pull over instead.

5. Know yourself and your car — As your response time naturally begins to slow with age, it’s important to have everything working to your advantage when you’re behind the wheel. Take note of whether you’re feeling ok to drive and make sure your vehicle is in proper working order. For example, be sure to replace your windshield wipers often and keep your headlights clean and free of debris.

Most importantly: be realistic about your ability to drive. If at any point you start to become unsure about driving, don’t take the risk. Handing the keys to someone else when you know you need to is not a sign of giving up your freedom. It’s a sign that you’ve grown to become the mature and responsible adult that you are.

 

If you’re presently seeking a senior apartment, independent-living, assisted-living, or other continuing-care community for yourself or a senior loved one, don’t forget to visit alternativesforseniors.com to assist your search. Or call an Alternatives for Seniors Senior Specialist at (888) WE-ASSIST (888-932-7747).

 

BLOG Date: October 21, 2014
Writer: Ryan Allen