Healthy Lifestyle

Helpful Driving Tips for Older Adults

picture of a parked car
If you are worried about your driving skills and your family members have expressed concerns, it’s worth taking some action to stay safe, prevent accidents and to keep from hurting others.

Keep in mind, as we age, we deal with several things impacting our safety behind the wheel, this includes:

  • Stiff/weak joints and muscles –  may impact your ability to see or brake in an emergency and lead to slower reaction time and reflexes. Fortunately, exercising can improve your strength and flexibility, in some cases
  • Eyesight issues – as you age, it takes longer to see clearly, sun glare and night time driving become issues, as well as diseases, such as glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration – be sure to have your eyes checked regularly and stay current with prescriptions for glasses or contacts
  • Effects of medication – taking medications may lead to drowsiness, decreased muscle reaction, slower cognitive ability and even cause vision problems
  • Hearing issues – have hearing checked regularly, at least every three years, consider a hearing aid if recommended
  • Dementia concerns – some people may find it difficult to remember where their favorite places are located, or even be able to find their way home, plus, decision-making may be impacted and unsafe or risky driving may result

Caregivers, family, neighbors and others have a big part, as they can speak to the person and work with the doctor to keep patients safe. Keep in mind, driving – especially to Americans – offers a sense of independence and freedom. Thus, taking away that ‘freedom’ may be a difficult task. Involve help from professionals as needed.

Helpful Driving Tips:

  • Talk to your doctor about any issues impacting your health and driving ability – you can even see an occupational therapist – they assess needed driving skills and can help people maximize their independence and participate in activities such as driving that aid in quality of life
  • Have your vehicle checked out before hitting the road – have the experts possibly prevent issues such as dead batteries or flat tires
  • Take frequent breaks, stop in safe areas and stretch – also consider getting off the road at sunrise, sunset (avoid sun glare) or at night
  • Plan your trip, be aware of high traffic times and monitor the weather – avoid snow and rain, if possible
  • Have a driving assessment or take a defensive driving course (contact AARP, American Automobile Association (AAA), or your car insurance company)

Helpful Resources:

To get around, contact your local Area Agency on Aging to help with transportation services. Call 1-800-677-1116, or go to www.eldercare.gov. To speak with a specialist at Nebraska Medicine, call (800) 922-0000.

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