The Older Driver: Staying Safe on the Road

Whether you need a few items from the store, want to visit a friend, or just like feeling the wind on your face as you cruise through the neighborhood, being able to drive is one of the things in life that offers a feeling of independence. Along with this freedom, however, comes the responsibility to drive safely no matter what your age. Age is certainly not an automatic indicator of how well you can drive, but older adults do experience the changes described below that can affect driving ability.

Good vision is crucial for safe driving. Ninety percent of decisions made while driving are based on information received through the eyes. Age-related changes in vision include loss of ability to focus quickly, narrowing of peripheral vision, decreased ability to adjust to changes from light to darkness, increased sensitivity to glare, and reduced ability to distinguish colors. These changes mean that when driving you may see less of the roadway, have difficulty detecting fast-moving objects, and have trouble distinguishing colored traffic signals, brake lights, and instrument panel lights.

Older minds can be just as sharp as younger minds, but cognitive changes can affect driving ability. The steps involved in reacting to a situation—sensing, deciding, and acting—each take longer for the older brain. In addition, certain medications, Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and some illnesses can decrease mental awareness. Even when mentally fit, it becomes harder to ignore distractions as you age.

How can you continue to be a safe driver?

Get regular vision exams, and correct any problems.

Try to limit driving to daylight hours.

Add a larger rearview mirror. Be sure to use both rearview and side mirrors.

Look just above the steering wheel for the best view of the road. Look at least one block ahead in the city, thirty seconds ahead on the highway.

Remove visual distractions such as window stickers or hanging objects.

Keep headlights, mirrors, windshields and windows clean.

Eliminate inside distractions such as the radio or passenger conversation.

Leave more distance between you and the car in front of you.

When turning left, make note of the speed of oncoming cars and any pedestrians that may necessitate a stop in mid-turn.

Become familiar with your route ahead of time.

Avoid congested areas as well as fast-moving and rush-hour traffic.

Plan one trip to complete multiple errands, and do one-stop shopping.

Avoid driving in bad weather.

If taking medications, read label warnings and avoid driving if you feel sleepy or disoriented. Avoid driving when first starting a new medication since side effects are often worse in the beginning. Discuss all medications and their effects with your doctor.

Stay mentally flexible by engaging in activities that require you to use problem-solving skills.

Research shows that higher levels of fitness in older adults relate to better driving skills. To stay fit and flexible, you might try walking, gardening, playing a sport or joining an exercise program designed for older adults. Always consult your physician first.

Age does bring changes, so periodically evaluate your own driving. If unsure of your abilities, ask family and friends to help, or take a refresher driving course. Then make safe driving decisions to stay fit, make necessary changes in driving habits, or let someone else do the driving.