Successful Aging - Archived Article

Successful Aging - Archived Article
Senior Driving

Our older years can be one of the happiest, most rewarding times of our life. With an understanding of our strengths and weaknesses as we age-- and careful planning--we can lead a productive, rewarding life that is both satisfying and fulfilling.

Staying active and doing the things you enjoy, such as shopping, going to the movies, dining out, and taking your grandchildren to the park are the things that keep life exciting.

Driving plays an important part in helping us maintain this independence as well. You can preserve your freedom by understanding the changes and challenges that getting older has on driving. Granted, some older drivers should stop driving altogether. However, the majority can avoid pitfalls that would lead to losing their freedom to drive by engaging in techniques that can help them to remain a safe driver.

Here are some suggestions:

Have an eye examination at least annually. When we drive, we take in information with our eyes. The average person begins to lose their ability to see details clearly between the ages of 40 and 50. The proper prescription lenses can help us read distant road signs as well as the words and symbols on our instrument panel.
If you are bothered by the glare of oncoming headlights while driving at night or by driving at night in general, then don't drive at night. Get an early start each day. Instead of going out for dinner, go out for lunch. It is not only healthier to eat a big meal earlier in the day, but it often is cheaper.
Avoid making left-hand turns. Our depth perception declines as we age, making it more difficult to determine the closeness of an oncoming vehicle. Instead, overshoot your destination by a block and make a couple of right hand turns.
Exercise and stay fit. Regular strength and flexibility exercise can help your driving performance by enabling you to turn your head freely and look over your shoulder when checking your blind spot or backing up.
See your physician for regular check-ups. Talk to your doctor about your medications and find out whether or not they could impair your ability to drive safely.
Choose a vehicle that you feel safe and secure driving. A car that you feel confident and comfortable driving is a must. The car should be maintained routinely to give you an increased margin of safety.
Participate in the 55 Alive Driving Safety Program. This 8-hour course, which is coordinated by AARP, helps you evaluate your skills and offers hints on managing some of the trickier aspects of driving. The course is only $10 per person and will save you 10% on your car insurance for three years. Any driver age 50 or older is eligible to take it. For more information on 55 Alive, call toll-free 1.888.227.7669.

For more information on aging and driving safely contact Gordon Sullivan, Traffic Safety Coordinator, Broome County Health Department 607.778.2807.

Next Week: If you must give up driving-transportation solutions to keep you mobile.