20th of March, 2017
Seniors Behind the Wheel:
Seniors driving a car past a certain age can be worrisome for anyone; their loved ones, pedestrians and other drivers on the road. This is simply due to the fact that as we age, our vision, hearing and reflexes deteriorate.
So here are some tips for elderly and their loved ones to make driving safer for everyone.
Get a vision and hearing exam frequently. We recommend taking your older loved one to the doctor to get their hearing and vision tested at least 2 times a year. Rapid declines can occur for people ages 60 and above and this can increase with any kind of trauma.Be aware of any side affects from medications. If your loved on is driving and is also on any medication that may cause sleepiness or drowsiness, please consult your doctor. It may be beneficial for them not to drive in this case if the medication needs to be taken frequently.
Drive during better conditions. Try to limit your loved one's driving to day time or morning driving when it is bright outside and it is easier to see. Encourage them not to drive during rainy or snowy weather conditions as factors such as poor weather and dark can increase the likelihood of an accident.Check for stiffness in their joints. Does your loved one have symptoms of arthritis? It may be difficult to operate a vehicle with such conditions. Consult a doctor prior to allowing them to get behind the week.
It is also important to consider conditions such as dementia in an elderly driver. If they have beginning stages of dementia - it may be difficult to know when to take away their license. It may be very painful to see your parent or grandparent get older and not be able to maintain the same kind of abilities. However, it is in everyone's best interest if they do not drive and hurt themselves or someone else on the road.