older people’s health issues
The Older Driver
Ways of Compensating
Many drivers begin to self-regulate their driving as they age. For example, older drivers may self-regulate their driving by eliminating long highway trips, driving less at night, avoiding confusing intersections, and not engaging in risky driving behaviors (for example, speeding, tailgating, and drinking and driving). There are many strategies older drivers can adopt to compensate for some age-related driving safety concerns. Older drivers can use their experience from years of driving to identify and avoid hazardous situations. For example, because stamina decreases with aging, older drivers may wish to drive shorter distances and take frequent breaks. They can avoid freeways and areas where traffic is congested or known to be dangerous. They can avoid driving at night or at twilight, when glare problems are most likely. They can avoid rush hour traffic and bad weather and try to avoid unprotected left turns. They may prefer to drive only familiar routes and locations. Avoiding distractions—an important consideration for all drivers—is essential for older drivers. Cell phones are an important safety feature for drivers who become stranded when a car unexpectedly needs repair. However, cell phone use (even hands-free models) while driving is strongly discouraged. States have different laws regarding cell phone use while driving, and in some states it is illegal. Similarly, making adjustments to the stereo or another onboard system (such as navigation, climate control, or seat position), eating or drinking, smoking, reading digital or paper maps, and even engaging in conversation with other passengers can be distracting and can impair driving performance. People should minimize distractions of all types while driving. Newer technology may assist older drivers. Parking aids, which use cameras or infrared systems to help with backing up, parking, and other maneuvers, are especially helpful for people who have difficulty looking over their shoulders. Other systems that are helpful to older drivers include cruise control, antilock brakes, and electronic stability devices that improve traction and steering. Advanced vision systems for night driving include curve lighting (lighting directed around a curve) and automatic dimming of headlights (high beams convert to low beams when there is oncoming traffic). Some cars offer blind-spot monitors, lane departure and collision warning systems, backup cameras, and rearview mirrors that automatically dim when hit by blinding headlights, thus reducing glare. Car manufacturers are experimenting with infrared night vision technology to enhance night driving. Car manufacturers are also redesigning handles and knobs to make them easier to operate for people who have arthritis. Other car design features, such as lower door thresholds, low-back supports, extended visors, and adjustable seats and steering wheels, are available to all drivers but may be particularly helpful for older drivers. Self-driving cars are being experimented with across the nation and will likely become available in future years. When crashes or other urgent situations occur, some emergency systems can automatically call and direct rescue teams to the car’s location. A Global Positioning System (GPS) may help older drivers locate destinations. Many older drivers have smart phones, which can have apps installed free of charge so that families can track their location using GPS technology if they become lost. Additionally, GPS technology is available to monitor many types of driving behavior (routes taken and speed while driving) via the internet if families desire. Further innovations are anticipated in the future. As more and more technologies become available, it will become important to recognize that older adults may need more individual time spent on training in the use of the newer technologies. Technologies should be individualized to provide what is most helpful for each person. (See MyCarDoesWhat.org fortoday's car safety features.) There are online programs for improving driving safety, some of which target older adults. Older drivers can help maintain or even improve their driving skills through driver refresher programs. Several organizations—such as the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) and American Automobile Association (AAA)—offer such programs to help older drivers adjust to the challenges of driving during old age. In addition, taking such programs may lower insurance rates in some states. AAA offersRoadWise Driver, a senior defensive driving program focused on helping seniors adjust to various age-related changes that impact driving ability, and AARP offersa course on refreshing driving skills. Older drivers may also benefit from programs designed to ensure that their vehicle fits them correctly. For example, they can be evaluated to ensure that they have the right distance from their steering wheel and the right seat height for viewing traffic. Adjusting mirrors properly can help drivers compensate for blind spots. AAA’sCarFitprogram is available virtually and at various in-person events across the country and provides useful information about how a person's vehicle can be best “fit” to improve safety. Adopting healthy lifestyle behaviors and obtaining good medical care can help older drivers avoid driving difficulties. There are many reasons to stay fit in older age—including retaining driving ability. Older people should regularly see a doctor to be evaluated for problems with vision, memory and thinking, and muscle strength that could impair their ability to drive. Treatment of some disorders may improve driving performance. For example, cataract removal can be beneficial. Treatment of arthritis with drugs and physical therapy can improve flexibility and mobility. Good control of diabetes can prevent swings in the blood sugar level. Treatment of sleep apnea can reduce daytime sleepiness. Older drivers should review their drugs with a doctor or pharmacist to make sure that driving performance will not be compromised by side effects. Many states have laws that prohibit people from driving for a specified time after certain disorders are diagnosed. This waiting period (moratorium) provides time for the disorder to be stabilized with treatment. For example, some states require a 3- to 6-month moratorium before driving after a seizure, stroke, or transient ischemic attack. Older drivers with any medical condition that could impact driving ability should follow doctors' recommendations regarding waiting periods or driving modifications. 