Age and driving: safety tips and warning signs

Driving is a privilege that should never be taken lightly. Aging can affect driving abilities due to changes in vision, reflexes and physical capabilities.

The following age-related signs should be kept in mind as they may compromise older adults’ ability to drive.

• Muscle/joint stiffness and weakness. Arthritis is a common condition in older adults associated with swelling in the joints making it harder for drivers to turn their heads, steer their vehicles and brake safely.

• Diminishing eyesight. As drivers get older, changes in their eyesight can make it harder to see pedestrians, fellow motorists and any movements outside of their direct line of sight. Drivers 60 and older should schedule a dilated eye exam annually, avoid driving at night or bright sunlight, or give up driving entirely.

• Diminishing hearing. Drivers must be able to hear horns and sirens from other vehicles as well as any noises coming from their own cars that could indicate a problem with the vehicle.

• Medications. Medications often produce side effects that can compromise a driver’s ability to drive safely, including drowsiness, lightheadedness and diminished alertness. People should discuss medications side effects and what they can do with their physicians. —MetroCreativeConnection