As older drivers, we may assume we’ll always be able to drive. However, it’s possible that in the near future, certain driving tasks such as highway driving, night driving, and long-distance driving may become more difficult.
Here are a few tips to help seniors drive more safely.
1. Take a Defensive Driving Course
Ultimately, seniors should prioritize their safety and the safety of others when deciding whether or not to continue driving.
In the United States, there is no federal law mandating that seniors take a driving test at a certain age. Instead, each state has its own laws and regulations regarding senior driving and licensing.
Many states do require seniors to undergo additional testing when renewing their driver’s licenses, usually starting around the age of 65 or 70. This testing may include vision and hearing tests, as well as a written or road test.
Some states also have special programs for seniors to help them maintain their driving skills and stay safe on the road. For example, the AARP Driver Safety Program offers classroom and online courses that cover defensive driving techniques and safe driving practices for seniors. Completing the course can lead to auto insurance discounts.
2. Consider How Aging Affects Driving and What You Can Do About It
If you plan to continue driving as a senior, it’s important to regularly assess your driving skills and take steps to compensate for any age-related changes.
This may include regular vision and hearing check-ups and staying up-to-date on your medication. Some medications or medical conditions can affect driving, so it’s important to be aware of any potential impairments and take steps to manage them.
Cognitive changes, such as a decline in working memory or processing speed, can also affect driving performance. If you experience diminishing vision or slower reaction times, it may be a sign that it’s time to stop driving altogether.
That being said, older drivers can also compensate for these changes through experience, caution, and good driving habits. They may also make adjustments such as avoiding driving at night or in inclement weather, and avoiding distractions while driving. Luckily, more and more innovations are appearing on the market that can make it easier for seniors to drive.
3. Consider New Car Technologies
Safety Features Helpful To Older Drivers
- Adaptive driving beam headlights: This technology automatically reduces the amount of light directed towards occupied sections of the road, while simultaneously increasing the amount of light directed towards unoccupied areas.
- Adaptive cruise control: This feature automatically adjusts the vehicle’s speed to maintain a safe distance from the car in front of it, which can reduce the need for seniors to frequently adjust their speed.
- Blind spot detection: This feature uses sensors to alert drivers when there is a vehicle in their blind spot, which can help seniors avoid collisions.
- Backup cameras: These cameras can help drivers see behind their vehicle when backing up, which can be especially helpful for those with limited mobility or range of motion.
- Lane departure warning: This feature alerts drivers when they are drifting out of their lane, again, helping to avoid collisions.
- Voice-activated controls: Many modern vehicles offer voice-activated controls, which can help seniors keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road while adjusting settings like the radio or air conditioning.
- Adjustable seats and steering wheels: Vehicles with adjustable seats and steering wheels can be customized to fit a senior’s specific needs and help them find a comfortable driving position.
- Emergency response systems: Some vehicles are equipped with emergency response systems that can automatically call for help in the event of an accident, which can provide added peace of mind.
It’s important to note that while these features can be helpful, they should never be relied upon completely, and seniors should always practice safe driving habits and regularly review their driving skills.
4. Consider the Costs Involved With Owning a Vehicle
Older drivers may be on a fixed income and worry about the costs associated with maintaining a car, such as repairs and insurance. Carefully review if you will be able to keep up with repairs. Bald or improperly inflated tires, for example, can pose real safety hazards.
There are additional ongoing expenses associated with driving, including parking, insurance, and road service.
5. Consider alternative transportation
You don’t have to give up driving altogether. However, if there are particular circumstances where you feel uncomfortable or unsafe driving, there are other transportation options. If you are going out after dark, for example, consider public transportation or ride-sharing services.
It’s important for seniors and their families to be aware of the laws and programs in their state regarding senior driving. If a senior driver is experiencing physical or cognitive decline that could affect their driving, it’s important to address the issue and consider alternative transportation options for their safety and the safety of others on the road.
Do you think you’ll be able to recognize if and when you may be unable to continue driving? Let us know in the comments below.