Driving abilities change as we age. When you first started driving, you were probably fearless and taking risks you shouldn’t have. When you became an adult, you probably became more cautious, especially if you were carting around children. As you enter your senior years, you might find that physical changes might impair your reaction time behind the wheel. Keep reading to learn more about six tips you can follow when driving if you’re a senior citizen.
Wear Your Seat Belt
Although this is a given, make sure you buckle your seat belt before you start the vehicle. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), seat belt use in passenger vehicles saved 14,955 lives in 2017. The NHTSA also states that the most effective thing you can do to protect yourself in a crash is to wear a seat belt as it keeps you from being ejected from the vehicle.
Stay on Familiar Roads
It’s easy to get confused while driving, so you might want to drive only on roads that you’re familiar with. Staying on familiar roads can decrease the chances for you getting lost. If you must drive on unknown roads, try to map out your route before you leave the house. Try to memorize the route as best you can so you’re not relying on a map while you drive.
Be Cautious While Driving at Night
You might experience changes in your vision that affect your vision when it gets dark. General darkness and the glare from oncoming vehicle headlights might make it more difficult to see. If this is the case, avoid driving at night. However, if that’s not possible, use well-lit streets and consider having a family member or friend accompany you.
Take a Refresher Course
It’s okay to know your limitations and ask for help. Consider taking a refresher driving course through local organizations or community education program. Updating your driving skills might also provide you with a discount on your car insurance.
Visit a Physician
It’s important to continue regular checkup with your physician who can determine if you’re physically able to drive. This includes having your eyesight and hearing checked. Wearing glasses or contacts with the correct prescription can help you see the road better, and outfitting your ears with hearing aids can ensure you hear properly.
Know Your Medications
You might take medications to deal with chronic illnesses such as heart disease or diabetes. Check to see if these medications you’re taking can make you drowsy or less alert than usual. If you take more than one medication, they might conflict with each other. Taking these medications that have certain side effects and then getting behind the wheel can inhibit your driving ability.
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, in the United States, there were almost 42 million licensed drivers age 65 or older. It’s imperative that you take great care when driving, especially in your later years. By following these six tips, you can continue driving well into your golden years while keeping yourself and others on the road safe.
Image via Flickr by RichardBH
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