Driving Tips for Senior Drivers
They say that life always comes full circle. People invariably experience this in their advanced years, when age begins to reflect on their physical and mental agility.
It is no coincidence that road accidents involving senior citizens are comparable to those involving teens. The context may be dramatically different. But the final results are, unfortunately, similar.
It is also natural for older people to wish to remain active and independent, even after retirement.
In fact, the more productive they are, the longer (and happier) they live. They are also hesitant to impose on another’s time, especially for daily tasks like grocery shopping, commute to work, visit with friends and family, etc.
For these reasons, they may continue to drive even in dangerous circumstances, albeit with increasing difficulty. Here are five handy driving tips for senior citizens to help you stay safe and confident even during your later years.
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Well Begun is Half Done
As a senior, advance preparation is vital before driving. Plan out your route before you get into the car. If you are visiting a destination for the first time or trying out a new route, ensure that you collect all related information like GPS directions, maps, and emergency contact numbers well before your trip.
If you can memorize them, that is even better. This way, you can avoid nasty surprises while also keeping your memory active and alert.
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Engage in Light Physical Activity
Age has a detrimental impact on the body’s functional strengths. But this can get even worse in the absence of regular physical activity. Keep your body and mind fit, even during your advanced years, with light stretching, short walks, and a reasonably active lifestyle.
You should also check with your doctor about what activities are suitable for you. For instance, he or she may recommend a weekly session of (supervised) swimming, to boost cardiovascular health and flexibility, so you remain a safe driver.
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Keep Your Senses in Check
As a driver, you are bound to be hit with an unexpected visual and aural stimulus, like the sudden blare of a horn, or a quick change in traffic lights. In some cases, these may demand an instantaneous response.
Hence, ensure that your vision and hearing are in good shape with frequent check-ups. Your doctor can also help by recommending helpful agents like anti-glare glasses or hearing aids so that your driving skills stay sharp and effective.
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Be Responsible With Your Decisions
This includes following all traffic rules, regardless of how “basic” they sound. (Like wearing the seatbelt or avoiding mobile phone distractions.) This also includes aligning your schedule with road conditions.
For instance, you may find it taxing to drive at night, or in the rain, or on the day after a snowfall. Here, consider whether it is really worthwhile for you to drive during these testing times.
Can that grocery list hold off for just another day? Can you reach out to a niece or nephew to drive you to the doctor for this week’s visit? Flexibility trumps independence during these critical times.
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Accept Your Limitations With Grace
Ultimately, there comes a time when a senior citizen needs to gracefully retire from work, and possibly from driving too. But this does not mean that you will need to retire from life’s activities.
Today, there are several affordable alternatives for those who cannot drive. (Like app-based cabs, prepaid taxis, public transport buses, van pickups, etc.) Depending on your needs, consider these options for your own safety as well as the safety of others on the road.
Watch YouTube Video: Safe Driving for Seniors. This video provides some safe driving tips for senior citizens.
Linda Car Accident Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Linda Car Accident Lawyer. Car accidents can happen to anyone at any age. If you have been injured in an auto accident due to another’s fault, call me today to protect your rights at (530) 392-9400 or (800) 404-5400.
I’m a member of the Million Dollar Forum and the National Association of Distinguished Counsel.
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