As we age, it’s only natural that our driving skills will change. And while many older drivers continue to drive safely and responsibly, there are some who may need a little extra help. If you’re an elderly driver, or if you have an elderly loved one who is still behind the wheel, here are some tips for making sure they are adequately equipped to handle the road.
Car Choice
In addition to making sure the driver is adequately equipped, it’s also important to make sure the car they’re driving is a good fit. For example, if you have an elderly loved one who is still behind the wheel, consider getting them a car with automatic transmission and power steering. You may also want to consider getting them a car with safety features like airbags and anti-lock brakes.
Adequate Insurance
Elderly drivers need to have adequate insurance just like any other driver. This means having liability insurance in case they cause an accident, and it also means having uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage in case they are hit by a driver who doesn’t have insurance.
You also may be able to bundle policies and get a discount if you have your auto and homeowners insurance with the same company.
Vision
One of the most important things you can do is to make sure their vision is up to par. This means regular check-ups with an eye doctor and, if necessary, getting corrective lenses or even surgery. Night driving can be especially difficult for older drivers, so it’s important to make sure they can see well in low light conditions.
Hearing
You should also make sure their hearing is adequate. Hearing loss is common as we age, so get their hearing checked on a regular basis. If they are having difficulty hearing, consider getting them a hearing aid.
Reflexes
As we age, our reflexes tend to slow down. This can make driving more difficult and even dangerous. If you’re an elderly driver, or if you have an elderly loved one who is still behind the wheel, be sure to get their reflexes checked on a regular basis. There are simple tests that can be done by a doctor or even at home that can give you an idea of how well their reflexes are working.
Fitness
It’s important for all drivers to be physically fit, but it’s especially important for older drivers. As we age, our muscles and bones tend to weaken, which can make it more difficult to drive. Be sure to stay active and get regular exercise to keep your body in tip-top shape.
Mental Health
Lastly, it’s important to make sure their mental health is up to par. This means keeping an eye out for things like depression, anxiety, and dementia. If you notice any changes in their mental health, be sure to talk to a doctor.
Frequent Routes
If your elderly loved one is still driving, it’s important to be aware of their frequent routes. This way, you can help them plan alternative routes in case of road closures or construction. You should also make sure they know how to use GPS or maps in case they get lost.
Planning Ahead
As we age, it’s important to start planning ahead. This means making sure our vehicles are safe and accessible, and that we have a plan in place for when we can no longer drive. If you’re an elderly driver, or if you have an elderly loved one who is still behind the wheel, be sure to start planning ahead for their future.
Limiting Drive Hours
If you’re an elderly driver, it’s important to limit your drive hours. This means avoiding driving at night, in bad weather, or in heavy traffic. It’s also important to take breaks frequently when driving long distances.
Consider Public Transportation
For some elderly drivers, public transportation may be a better option than driving. If you’re having difficulty driving, consider taking the bus or the train instead. This can help reduce your stress and make getting around easier.
These are just a few things to keep in mind if you’re an elderly driver, or if you have an elderly loved one who is still behind the wheel. The best way to ensure safety while driving is by being proactive and well-informed of the risks associated with age and inexperience.
If you know someone who falls into this category, take the time to share these tips – it could save their life. By taking some simple precautions, you can help make sure they are safe on the road.
