Given the fact that 18% of all traffic fatalities include people who are 65 years of age or older, it is important to learn about senior safety on the road.
Changes Influencing Seniors on the Road
Because most seniors are significantly experienced drivers, it can be hard for them to accept that there might be safety concerns about their driving. It’s important for them to know this isn’t because they’ve done something wrong or because they are “bad drivers,” but rather a simple and necessary evaluation of their abilities BEFORE tragedy occurs.
Age-related changes that affect driving for seniors include:
• Limited vision or hearing
Decreased reaction time, judgment, or attention due to health conditions
Poor posture
Weakness when operating a steering wheel, brakes, etc.
Memory loss that leads to getting lost or confused
Medications that impair judgment and reaction times
Night-time driving exacerbates the effects of these changes on senior safety as well.
Conversation Starters about Seniors’ Road Safety
Driving can be a sensitive topic for seniors. Use these questions to start conversations:
Have you noticed any scratches or dents on your car recently?
Have you experienced anything frightening on the road lately?
Do any of your medications affect how you feel when driving?
Are there any signs on your usual route that have been hard to spot?
What’s the best route to get between (two points senior should be familiar with)?
Would it be helpful to you if you didn’t have to drive all the time?
Increasing Driver Safety for Seniors
Encourage seniors to increase their safety on the road with these tips.
Stay active to maintain flexibility and strength
Make sure brakes, steering wheel, and seats function smoothly
Drive at times of day with good visibility
Keep up to date on vision and hearing checks
Use adaptors like extra mirrors
Leave extra space between vehicles and stay below the speed limit
Ask doctors about medications and their effects on driving
Home Care Tip
Many public, private, and non-profit transportation providers offer discounts or free rides to seniors. Contact a local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) for listings near you. For non-emergency medical transportation, contact Medicaid. If a senior is struggling with the idea of driving less, encourage them to try these affordable options and experience how much freedom they will still have.