Senior Safe Driving Tips

Driving is one of the hardest tasks you’ll do every day. Heard that before? It’s repeated because it’s true! However, having a driver’s license is something that many Canadians take for granted, but it is a huge part of maintaining independence for people.

Aging makes driving much more difficult, it doesn’t however, have to mean the end of independence and getting around. With some precautions you can continue to maintain your freedom while staying safe on the road.

Find a Car that is Easy to Handle

Researchers determined some of the most important features of a suitable vehicle include one that is easy to get in and out of, has controls that are easy to reach and use, and offers good visibility as well as powerful headlights. Having an appropriate vehicle can go a long way to making sure mature drivers are travelling safely.

Keep your Eyes and Ears Open

Remember to always wear your prescription glasses and hearing aids when you are driving. Some of the most notable changes our bodies go through as they age is to our eyesight and hearing. Most often seniors have reduced vision issues when driving, particularly in the dark. There can also be a decrease in depth perception that can affect our safety behind the wheel. It is important to get your eyes and ears checked regularly.

Don’t Forget your Meds

Medications can affect our behaviors and capacity. Some can slow down our cognitive ability to respond and interact safely to unexpected situations. Thus, it is important to be aware of the side effects of prescription drugs, as well as any dangerous drug interactions if you are taking more than one medication.

Practice, Practice, Practice

Road and travel rules can change over time it is a good idea to update your driving skills. The program also helps drivers come to terms with the fact that there may come a time when they can’t drive any longer.

It is important for everyone that those behind the wheel are able to travel safely. By ensuring that you follow the rules of the road, take your medications correctly, and have your eyes and ears checked mature drivers will be keeping themselves and others safe on the streets.

If you have any concerns or would like some help living more comfortably at home or booking an in home visit, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 1-866-982-2737 and speak with some about setting up an at home care assessment today.