For many people, the ability to drive is linked to independence – the freedom to come and go when and wherever we please. But as we age, our body and health changes, which can impact our ability to drive safely.
Even if it is the right choice, making the decision to stop driving can be very difficult.
Here at Delmanor Northtown, we are always ready to help. We have compiled a list of tips and strategies to help you drive safely as you age, and hopefully, to keep you in the driving seat for longer.
Remain as physically active as possible
As we age, our joints may get stiff and our muscles may weaken. Arthritis is very common among seniors. Both of these can negatively impact our ability to drive. Stiff and painful joints may make it harder to turn our heads for lane changes, to turn the steering wheel quickly, or even to break safely.
Staying physically active as we age, can help keep us strong and flexible for longer and help to ward off stiff joints.
The kind of car is important
If it is possible, opt for a vehicle with an automatic transmission, power steering, power brakes, and large mirrors. Newer cars have many safety features that seniors can take advantage of such as backup cameras and warning sensors.
Many new models have automatic alerts that will give a warning if we are about to hit an object or another vehicle before an accident occurs.
Take charge of your eye and ear health
As we age, our eyesight tends to worsen. It can be harder to see people, things, or movements. Age-related eye diseases such as glaucoma are more prevalent.
If you are older than 60, you should be receiving a dilated eye exam from your eye doctor every two years. If you wear glasses or contact lenses, make sure your prescription is correct and up to date. Try to avoid driving at night, or when visibility may be poor, such as at sunrise or sunset.
Hearing can also worsen as we age making it harder to hear horns, sirens, or other noises.
Seniors over the age of 50 should have their hearing checked at least every three years. For those who have been exposed to chronic loud noises or have other risk factors for hearing loss, hearing should be checked more often.
If you have been prescribed hearing aids, be sure to always wear them when driving.
Always involve your doctor
Some medications can make you feel drowsy, lightheaded, or less alert
Be sure to ask your doctor or pharmacist if any medications or health problems may make it unsafe for you to drive.
Plan, plan, plan
Take time to plan your route before you leave the house. Drive on streets that you know wherever possible and choose a route that avoids highways or other high-speed roadways.
Try to avoid driving during rush hour or bad weather. If you must travel during these times, think about using other transportation methods such as buses, taxis, or rideshares.
Be honest with yourself
If you are worried about your ability to drive safely, you can have your driving skills checked by a driving rehabilitation specialist, occupational therapist, or other trained professional.
Consider asking for feedback from family and friends, and be open to their point of view.
Be honest with yourself about your limitations and be sure to prioritize your safety as well as the safety of other drivers.
Making changes like giving up driving isn’t easy—but you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. At Delmanor Northtown, we understand how important it is to maintain your independence, your routines, and your sense of control.
If you’re starting to think about what comes next, we invite you to experience our warm, welcoming community firsthand.
Book a tour of Delmanor Northtown today—a full-service retirement community in the heart of Toronto—and see how we help our residents live well, every day.
