The years pass quickly between getting a drivers’ license as a teen and becoming an older adult driver. As we age, we need to continually assess our ability to drive safely, keeping in mind not only our safety, but also the safety of our passengers, other drivers and pedestrians. Four primary issues that affect our driving as we age are vision, hearing, medication and vehicle safety.

Changes in Vision. Nearsightedness and farsightedness are common vision issues. Medical problems could include cataracts, glaucoma or macular degeneration. As drivers age, they may also experience changes in:

• light sensitivity;
• focus;
• depth perception; and
• peripheral vision.

Tips:

• Wear sunglasses to reduce glare on sunny days.
• Visit the eye doctor annually.
• Limit nighttime driving—plan long-distance trips for the daylight hours.
• Avoid driving at dusk or dawn, when it is most difficult to see.

Changes in Hearing. As a person ages, hearing may decrease or it may become more difficult to distinguish sounds. Hearing is crucial to driving, as it helps alert drivers to changes in traffic, including the approach of emergency vehicles or the horn of another vehicle.

Tips:

• Turn off the radio, or keep the volume low.
• Keep the air conditioner or heater on low to help reduce background noise.
• Limit conversation with passengers, which can be distracting.

Medication. Medication can affect an individual’s ability to drive at any age. Older adults are more likely to take multiple medications, and may need to take extra steps to retain their driving abilities while taking medication.

Tips:

• Ask your physician or pharmacist if your medication, alone or in combination with other meds, can affect your driving.
• Read the label of each bottle carefully.
• Evaluate your own reaction to medication—even if the label doesn’t contain a warning, your body may react.
• Remember that alcohol and medication don’t mix—especially when driving.

Vehicle Safety. Every driver should take steps to make sure their vehicle is safe for driving.

Tips:

• Keep windows, windshields and mirrors clean.
• Keep wiper blades clean, and replace them at least once a year.
• Become familiar with your vehicle’s displays and controls.
• Use lights in rain, snow or other bad weather.
• Use turn signals to alert other drivers and pedestrians of your intentions.
• Keep your headlights and taillights clean.
• Check your mirrors frequently.
• Reduce fatigue by making frequent rest stops, or by adjusting your body’s position while driving.
• Check tires for tread wear.
• Plan alternate routes for highway travel if the minimum speed is too fast for you to be comfortable, or you are traveling congested routes, particularly during rush hours.