Safe driving habits for aging adults can help maintain independence

The ability to drive is so much more than just a means of getting around — it is a cornerstone of independence. Being able to drive means you don’t need to rely on others, which is more important than ever before in today’s car-dependent world, where families are more spread out than in decades past.

Yet, driving can become risky as we or our loved ones experience aging-related changes. How do you know when it may be time to turn over the keys, and how can you be safe behind the wheel for as long as possible?

When (and why) does driving become unsafe?

Perhaps you’re experiencing more close calls on the road or noticing unexplained dents and scrapes on your vehicle’s body. Maybe you feel less confident behind the wheel, or adapting to road and weather conditions is becoming more challenging. You might even find yourself unable to remember where you were headed or how to get back home.

The ability to drive safely does not decline simply because a person is older; many seniors have decades of safe driving skills and knowledge under their belts. Instead, driving can become unsafe for older adults because of physiological and cognitive changes that may occur with aging, such as:

• Changes in vision

• Hearing loss

• Reduced reaction time

• Joint and muscular stiffness

• Medication side effects

What can you do about it?

If you’re feeling like you’re doomed when it comes to aging and driving, stay with me. There are many tools and strategies for staying behind the wheel as long as possible, and you can start right now!

• Engage in regular physical activity to enhance flexibility and strength.

• Stay up to date with vision and hearing examinations.

• Avoid driving at night or in poor weather.

• Manage medications properly and be aware of any side effects that may affect your focus, alertness or ability to see the road.

• Minimize distractions; if you have a cellphone, turn it off or stash it away.

• Regularly refresh your driving skills; the AARP offers an online safe driver course based upon the state in which you live to keep your understanding of the rules of the road current

Driving is a gateway to independence throughout life, one that folks hesitate to give up. While physical and cognitive changes resulting from aging can make driving unsafe and threaten that independence, there are good driving habits and practices that can help you or the senior in your life keep the keys for as long as possible.

The Hickman is a senior living community located in the heart of West Chester. Guided by Quaker principles and traditions that value all life and welcome diversity, The Hickman offers individualized care allowing older adults the opportunity to enjoy a productive life and to explore the richness of all of life’s possibilities. For more information, visit thehickman.org.

FREE USAGE Driving is a gateway to independence throughout life, one that folks hesitate to give up.