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Driving Safely - How to Know When It's Time to Turn in the Car Keys

As the bulk of our country's population is getting older, that means the drivers on the road are too. First of all, it is important to draw attention to the fact that just because you are older, does not mean that your driving skills deteriorate. Many people still are great drivers in their 70's and 80's. However, there are some elements that can affect driving skills that you should be aware of as you age.

Physical Changes

Getting older means that your muscles and joints also are older this translates to more muscle and joint aches and pains. If you feel stiff, this could hinder your reaction time behind the wheel. Just think about what would happen if your knee is stiff and slows your braking time. How about a stiff neck or elbows interfering with checking traffic or turning the wheels of your car? Reflexes also get slower as you age, no matter how good a shape you are.

Hearing and eye sight are also physical changes that can make a difference in driving. Some older adults have a hard time with seeing at night while others have trouble with bright lights and sunshine hurting their eyes. Peripheral vision becomes less focused and if you are suffering from any type of eye condition, you could run into problems.

Any number of health conditions that are normally treatable can become problems. A defibrillator could cause your heart to skip a beat or two and cause dizziness just like low blood sugar in a diabetic. Adverse reactions to medications can also trigger health issues. Any number of physical or medical changes can turn an innocuous trip to the corner grocery into a huge accident.

Savvy Driving Advice

Before you leave on a trip, even if it is a quick one, plan your route in advance along with a back-up in case of road construction or other road problems. Avoid highway driving if possible and always add extra time to get where you are going in case of any problems. In addition, only drive when you are fully rested.

During the drive, always wear a seat belt and do not drive with distractions like talking on a cell phone. If you must make or take a call, pull into a parking lot or safely on the shoulder of a road. Leave at least two to three car lengths between you and other vehicles in case there are any sudden stops or traffic problems. You need to leave yourself a way out of those situations. Always have your head lights on and discourage tailgaters by slowing down to let them pass. Do not, however, drive on the shoulder to do so as it can be dangerous.

Keep routine maintenance kept up on your vehicle and make sure that you have all the latest safety features such as air bags. Always have your fluids and tires checked every so often and go in for a full car check-up if you plan to travel for any length of time.

Evaluating your own Driving Skills

Evaluate your own driving skills. Are you becoming more nervous on the roads as you get older? Do you avoid driving unless absolutely necessary? Do other drivers honk at you or have you have some minor dings on your car as a result of your driving? Do family and friends show concern with your continued driving privileges? These are all concerns that can help you decide whether you not you should still keep those car keys.

If you still feel that your reflexes are good and that you can handle being on the roads, look into a roadside club you can turn to in case of an emergency or traffic mishap. Also, check into driver's education refresher courses for seniors to keep you abreast of the latest techniques and tips to keep you safe as an older adult on the road.

When driving is something you need to give up, don't fret. There are plenty of ways that you can still get out and about. Bus lines and taxis are options as are family and friends. There are even senior assistance programs that you pay a nominal fee to that will take you grocery shopping or to the doctor's office. Check with your local senior advocate offices or even your church parish. There are volunteers that would love to help out with driving and errands. There are plenty of options to stay safe and still get around without driving.