|
|
 |
|||
Safe Driving Tips for Older DriversVision - Choose a car with easy-to-read gauges and add a wide rear-view mirror. Avoid night driving and driving in bad weather or during rush hour if possible. Get regular eye exams. Be sure to wear glasses with the correct prescription. Anti-glare coating on the lenses is also helpful. Hearing - Have your hearing checked regularly and, if necessary, get hearing aids, as good hearing is critical for cues like mechanical or tire problems, horns and sirens. Use additional mirrors to add visual assistance to help compensate for loss of hearing. Strength and Flexibility - Exercise to increase your strength and flexibility. Take over the counter anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen to help with minor arthritis pain and stiffness. If possible, drive a car with automatic transmission, power steering and brakes. Drowsiness - Loss of non-REM sleep, the restful sleep we need, is common with aging. Avoid driving after dark or after a big meal. If you feel drowsy, pull to the side of the road for a quick nap. Medications - Ask your doctor if any of your medications, including those you buy over the counter, can impair driving. If so, talk with your clinician about rearranging your medication schedule if possible. Even with these modifications, consider brushing up on your driving skills. AAA, AARP, and The Association of Driver Rehabilitation Specialists all offer worthwhile resources that can help. If it's time to give up driving, look into public transportation and local senior center transportation alternatives. Take advantage of shuttle service, grocery delivery services, medications by mail, and catalog and internet shopping. |