Keeping safe on the road is super important, especially if you have a concern about an aging parent, an older spouse, relative, or maybe even yourself. Aging affects driving skills particularly with respect to vision, response time and drowsiness.
Just a handful of states require seniors to take mandatory tests to renew their driver’s license. Drivers of all ages, especially those over 55, are encouraged to take part in on-going adult driving education and instruction.
First things first, stay active! It’s like giving your car a tune-up—keeping your body strong helps with steering and handling those unexpected turns while driving. So, dancing, walking, going to the gym or even just stretching regularly can really rev up those driving skills! Now, about those meds—while they’re crucial for staying healthy, some can make you sleepy or dizzy. It’s always best to honestly discuss with your doctor about any medications that might affect your driving.
Maybe it’s time to call a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft. There are various affordable transportation services for seniors, including ride sharing and public transportation options. For others that qualify, many states and cities have free transportation services for seniors and caregivers.
Keeping an eye and ear out for any changes in vision or hearing is super important. Just like a car needs regular maintenance, our eyes and ears need a little tune-up as we age. Checking in with the doctor every year can help catch any sneaky changes before they cause trouble.
Remember, there’s no harm in asking for a helping hand.
Be willing to admit and discuss any difficulties and concerns with a relative or someone you trust. Your life, and the lives of others, could be at stake. It’s like having a pit crew—sometimes a fresh pair of eyes (or ears) can spot things we might miss.
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