Safety Tips for Senior Drivers
When we drive we depend on our reflexes, hearing, and vision, among other things. As we all know, these can be adversely impacted by age. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help compensate for aging’s impact on our physical abilities:
Monitor and Protect Your Physical Health
Driving can be a physical endeavor. Strength and flexibility can decline as we age, and therefore driving activities such as steering and checking blind spots can become more difficult. In order to combat declines in strength and flexibility, try to remain as physically active as possible. If you have been sedentary or have concerns about your ability to engage in exercise, please first consult with your doctor.
Be Aware of Fatigue and Medication Use
Some of the most common medications can cause drowsiness, affect vision and perception, decision-making, reaction time and maneuvering. Alone or combined, these side effects can impair our ability to drive safely. If you or someone you know experiences any of these side effects, consult with a doctor or pharmacist immediately in order to develop a plan to allow for continued safe driving. Read More
