Many seniors are on the road right now, thanks to an expanding population and more older persons preferring to continue driving. Understandably, whether or not people should drive into their senior years is divisive. On the other hand, driving allows seniors to remain independent, mobile and connected to their families and communities. However, driving becomes more hazardous as we become older, and a long drive may somehow need some braces and supports with our backs. The hearing difficulty, reduced eyesight, and stiff joints and muscles are all common side effects of aging that might limit our ability to drive safely.
We all know that there are natural changes in our brains and bodies as we age. That’s why we take vitamins daily to fight it. The topic of when to limit or cease driving has nothing to do with age. It all comes down to the driver’s abilities. Observing how a senior drives and searching for warning signs of risky driving is a good first step in assessing whether it’s time to talk to them about giving up the keys.
As we all know, driving skill extends beyond the capacity to physically control a vehicle. Safely driving a car necessitates physical and cognitive talents and driving skills, and proper driving behavior.
How to avoid accidents on the road for seniors?
In general, older folks drive safer than other age groups by wearing seat belts more frequently, driving when conditions are safest, and not drinking while driving. Ones of all ages, particularly seniors, can stay safe on the road by following these tips:
- Always buckle up!
One of the most efficient strategies to save lives and prevent injuries in crashes is to use a seat belt. Using a seatbelt may avoid you from bumpy and excessive movement while driving on a bumpy road or neighborhood.
- Drive if the weather is good
Crash injuries and deaths are more likely when the weather is bad or driving at night. So be careful when driving all the time. Always watch the news and see what the weather could be on the day you’ll drive.
- Don’t drive and drink!
Due to decreased coordination and impaired judgment, participating in a car accident increases the likelihood of being involved in one.
Signs to look out for
Many seniors show that being on the road is no longer safe. Some of these are observable, while others should be kept an eye out for. These are the following red flags to keep an eye out for.
- The car is damaged.
Examine seniors’ vehicles for scuffs or small mishaps. Are there any fresh dents or scratches on the vehicle? The car’s damage could imply a near-miss or an unintentional collision. Inspect their fence, driveway area, and their mailbox for any damage. Driving skills are diminishing if they hit stationary objects or have close encounters. It is best to maintain eye care because some of the close misses may occur due to misjudging traffic gaps, underestimating the speed of approaching cars, or misreading traffic signals or road signs.
- Eyesight problems
Changes in vision, such as macular degeneration, cataracts, and glaucoma, can make it difficult for an older adult to notice road signs, traffic signals, and other drivers. Seniors’ apprehension or fear of driving at night may be due to eyesight impairment. Ensure an annual vision test chart and follow the doctor’s instructions.
- Peddle issues
Another red flag is if seniors confuse the gas pedal with the brake pedal or if they hit both simultaneously. It may be the result of cognitive or physical deterioration. It is suggested that drivers who elevate their legs to go from the accelerator to the brake, rather than keeping their heels on the floor and pressing with their toes, may indicate declining leg strength. The best solution is to let seniors wear ankle support before testing them to drive again in the wide.
- Physical restraints
Is it difficult for seniors to park, back up, or turn the car around? Physical constraints, such as the inability to turn the head due to stiff joints or pain, could be why. It may prevent people from looking for lane changes or backing up in their blind areas and rearview mirrors. It isn’t always a sign that they should quit driving, but they may require orthopedic supplies or equipment to improve mobility. It wouldn’t hurt to have a backup camera.
- Medications
Seniors should not drive if their doctor has instructed them to due to medications or a medical condition that could impair their driving abilities. Any prescription or over-the-counter drug that includes a caution not to operate heavy machinery should be followed. Narcotics, tranquilizers, Sominex, pain killers, cough drops, and decongestants are pharmaceuticals that might alter eyesight and perception, decision-making, maneuverability, and reaction speed.
- Unwillingness to drive
If seniors are hesitant to drive, appear anxious or exhausted after driving, or complain about getting lost, pay attention. They could decline any invitations to social events that may require them to drive, especially late at night. It could be their way of admitting that they understand their limitations and take precautions to avoid accidents.
- Impairment of hearing
Hearing loss affects the majority of people as they get older. Hearing loss affects one-third of those over the age of 65. Hearing loss can develop over time without the individual recognizing it, impairing the capacity to hear horns, screaming tires, sirens, and other sounds that would normally make them jump out of their skin. Ascertain that seniors receive frequent hearing examinations and make sure to accompany them with hearing aid accessories in the meantime.
Final Thoughts
No one likes to give up their freedom, and driving is one of the most powerful emblems of independence. It can be tough for parents to pass over their keys to their adolescent children, and role reversal later in life can be unpleasant. Always remind seniors that it’s probably preferable to be alive and enjoy life than driving and risking their lives and others. AvaCare Medical has many things to offer for seniors who love to go out. Mobility/power scooters are the best ones for them!
Everyone ages differently. As a result, there is no way to determine a single age at which a driver should stop driving. Here at AvaCare Medical, we provide you the best assistance from our medical experts on how you should manage a senior or yourself to continue driving. Our daily living aids are always here to help you. For more information, don’t hesitate to contact us at 1-877-813-7799 or email us at info@avacaremedical.com.