Talking About Cars

In many ways, the process of aging is the opposite of the process of maturation.  Instead of learning to do new things and becoming more independent as we did when we were younger, we begin forgetting how to do things or doing them less well, and gradually become less independent.  But the loss of independence that comes with the loss of driving can be slowed if seniors take some steps to keep their driving skills sharp.  The following are some ways to help.

Everyone who operates a vehicle should have annual eye exams to catch any new or developing problems.  During the exam, any person age 55 or older should specifically talk with their eye care professional about driving.  The eye care professional can test for abilities specifically used while driving, including peripheral vision and night vision.  Special corrective lenses may be needed for driving, and other limitations – such as no driving at night – may be appropriate.

Driving should also be a topic of conversation during regular physical examinations each year.  Muscle strength and joint flexibility are important considerations, and specific exercises may be recommended to increase these characteristics.  Even if specific exercises aren’t recommended, being more active is a good way to maintain the physical and intellectual capacity needed to safely operate a vehicle.

Reaction time and decision making skills are also crucial while driving.  A doctor can help evaluate these skills in seniors to determine if driving restrictions are appropriate.  The doctor should also review all medications to see whether or not they affect driving abilities.  You can also help by spending some time in the car while the senior is driving and observe his or her behavior for any unsafe actions.

In addition, several organizations offer refresher driving courses for seniors.  Completion of such a course may qualify seniors for discounts on their car insurance.  Some organizations that offer these courses include the AARP and AAA.  You can also speak with someone at your local department of motor vehicles, or DUI or defensive driving schools, to find out about commercial courses targeted toward seniors.

Another way to help seniors drive safely is to make sure that they’re in cars that meets their needs.  Seniors need good visibility, which means large windows and windshields.  They need easy to read instrumentation, and good side and rear-view mirrors.  The seat, steering wheel, and seat belt should be adjustable in order to provide a comfortable experience and maximum visibility and access to all controls.  Generally speaking, controls that adjust with a button, such as power windows, are easier for seniors to operate than controls that require twisting or turning.  The National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association can help you find dealers that offer adaptive equipment that can make driving safer and easier, including knobs for steering wheels or gas and brake pedal extensions.

Finally, don’t be afraid to have frank, realistic discussions with seniors about their driving ability.  It may be that certain activities, such as highway driving or driving at night, need to be curtailed, but that other activities remain safe.  Talk with seniors about their selected routes, and help them choose safer routes that avoid hazards, such as left turns across traffic with no turning signal.  In addition, make sure the senior has a cell phone for emergencies, but knows not to use it while driving.

There will come a time when all of us have to give up driving.  But with a little effort, however, that day need not arrive sooner than necessary.