By Peg Cochran, Holland Home
According to a University of Florida study, people over the age of 75 are more likely to be involved in fatal automobile accidents than any other age group, except for teenagers. In addition, 28 percent of crashes involving older drivers happen while making a left turn. Why? There are several factors that impact our ability to drive safely as we get older.
Factors Affecting Safe Driving
One of the most common changes we experience as we age occurs in our ability to react. We react more slowly, we move more slowly, and we are more likely to be distracted by road signs, lights, billboards and other things in our line of vision. We may also have changes in our eyesight—for example cataracts or macular degeneration—that influence our ability to drive safely. Finally, physical changes such as stiffness in the neck can make it difficult for us to turn our head sufficiently while backing up or making turns, and stiffness in our legs or leg pain can impact our ability to quickly move our foot from the gas to the brake.
Warning Signs of Unsafe Driving
What are the warning signs of a decreased ability to drive safely? An increased number of traffic citations or “close calls” can be a clue that you or your loved one is no longer safe on the road. Memory issues are another red flag that it might be time to give up driving. In addition, problems with hearing, issues with eyesight or taking medications that cause drowsiness or have other side effects that might interfere with concentration and reaction time, need to be taken into consideration.
Staying Safe on the Road
One of the best ways to remain safe on the road is to take a safe driving course and brush up on your skills. A vehicle with good visibility, power brakes and power steering is a must. Keep your car in good repair and be sure that your windshield and headlights are always clean.
As we age, night vision diminishes, and you may want to consider limiting driving to the daytime if you or your loved one is experiencing changes in vision. Avoid driving in bad weather or on unfamiliar roads. If health changes persist, you may also want to consider limiting highway driving.
Alternatives to Driving
One of the many advantages to living in an independent retirement community is that it’s possible to give up driving without being housebound. Enjoyable communal activities, along with the proximity of friends and neighbors, makes it possible to have a fun, active social life even if you choose to no longer drive.
“Even bad weather can’t keep you isolated,” said Michael Loughman, director of sales for Holland Home. “Most independent living communities offer a full calendar of outings and events, along with weekly trips to the supermarket and many on-site amenities like beauty salons, banks and health centers.”
Giving up, or limiting, driving also encourages walking, which is a wonderful exercise option that leads to better health. Most towns have some form of public transportation or shuttle service. In Grand Rapids, Go!Bus provides low cost, door-to-door service for seniors over the age of 65. Taxis are another option, as is arranging rides with younger family members or friends.
Giving Up the Car Keys
At a certain point, it might be necessary to take the car keys away from a loved one because of safety concerns. This is a very delicate situation and requires a great deal of sensitivity. The key is to show respect for your loved one and be mindful of their dignity. Giving up driving is an enormous transition, and they may feel as if they are giving up more than just their car.
It is helpful to give them specific examples of times when you felt their driving was no longer safe — close calls, driving citations, unexplained dents or dings in their car. You may have to lean on other family members for help and support. It can also be reassuring to explore other means of transportation with your loved ones to avoid feelings of dependence and isolation.’
Giving up the privilege of driving isn’t easy, but it doesn’t have to mean the end of independence.
