Senior Driving Safety

As we get older, it is normal for our driving abilities to change. By becoming aware of safer driving practices and reducing risk factors, many of us will be able to continue driving well into our senior years.

It is vital that we pay attention to warning signs that age may be interfering with our driving safety, and make adjustments as needed. If you do find that you need to reduce your driving or stop altogether, it doesn’t mean the end of your independence.

Understand how ageing affects driving

We all know that everyone ages differently, however statistics show that older adults are more likely to receive traffic infringements than younger drivers and fatal crash rates increase sharply after a driver has reached the age of 70. A number of factors contribute to this increase such as declining vision, impaired hearing and even slow reflexes. All of these can have a major impact on your ability to safely control a car.

Many of us have driven for most of our lives and take pride in being safe drivers, but as you age, it is important that you understand your driving ability can change.

Tips for safe senior driving

There are plenty of things that you can do to ensure you continue driving safely. Regular health check-ups are one way to keep you in the best possible driving shape.

• Get your eyes checked every year
• Have your hearing checked every 1-2 years
• Talk with your doctor about any concerns you have
• Get plenty of sleep

Other ways you can keep safe on the road include:

• Choose the right car – automatic transmission, power steering and power breaks can assist you in becoming a safer driver
• Visit your mechanic regularly
• Ensure your headlights and windows are always clean
• If needed, equipment can be prescribed to make steering the car and operating the foot pedals easier
• Pay extra attention at intersections
• Avoid all distractions – talking on the phone, reading a map or GPS. Pull over if you need to.
• Allow sufficient breaking distance
• If a driving situation makes you uncomfortable, don’t do it
• Take a refresher/driver safety course

Know the warning signs of unsafe driving

It is common for unsafe signs to develop gradually. Even if the signs seem minor, together they can create a significant risk. If you are worried about your own driving or even about a loved one or friend, look out for the following warning signs:

• Medications that may affect senses and reflexes
• Problems with eyesight and/or hearing
• A decline in reflexes and range of motion
• Problems with memory
• An increased number of close calls and traffic infringements/warnings

Benefits of not driving

Having to adjust to life without a car or even just driving less than you used to can be challenging. However, there are many benefits to living without a car:

• You will save money on car insurance, maintenance, registration and petrol. You could use these savings to pay for alternative transportation, if necessary.
• Giving up driving often means walking more, which is hugely beneficial to your health. Regular exercise can help you boost your energy, sleep better and improve confidence.
• Reducing your time driving means you will connect with new people. Whether that be using public transport or accepting a ride from a friend. TIP: You could offer your friend money for petrol or even other chores or a home cooked meal in return for your friend driving.

A range of transportation alternatives are available including:

• Public transportation
• Ride sharing
• Community shuttles
• Taxis or private drivers
• Walking/cycling
• Motorized wheelchairs