Categories: Safety for Seniors

Safe Driving Tips for Seniors

We all enjoy the independence of driving our own cars. However, as we age, some of our physical and mental skills change.

In This Article:

Things To Check Before Leaving The House
Safe Tips While Driving
Other Driving Safety Reminders

This may affect our driving ability. Here are some tips to keep you and others around you safe when you drive:

Before leaving:

Plan your route. Be sure to drive on streets you are familiar with. Check the map or Internet for directions, if necessary.
Do not take the freeway or highway, if fast cars bother you.
Limit driving to daytime hours if you are having night vision problems.
Avoid driving in bad weather conditions
Avoid driving during rush hour. Plan to leave after the morning rush, usually after 9 am and plan to return home before the evening rush, which typically starts around 4 pm.
Do not drive when you are tired or stressed.
Check to see if your medication may cause drowsiness. If so, do not drive.
Check your tires.

While Driving:

Be sure to wear your seat belt at all times.
Do not use your cell phone while driving.
Do not follow too close. Leave a big space between you and the other cars.
Look out for pedestrians
Focus on the road and avoid any distractions.
Turn on your headlights
Drive within the speed limit. If you drive slower than most cars, stay on the right lane.
Use your turn signals, when necessary and change lanes carefully.

Other Important Reminders:

Drive a car that meets your needs. Be sure that your car has features that will make driving easier like: automatic transmission, power steering, power breaks, large mirrors, etc.
Replace windshield wiper blades, when needed.
Check headlights to make sure they are cleaned and aligned.
See your doctor regularly to check your vision, hearing and general health.
Exercise regularly to be physically fit.
It would be helpful to take a driving refresher class every few years as this will remind you of safe driving guidelines. Take note that some car insurance companies give discounts when you pass the class.

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About the Author: Catharine D. Allado is a Senior Care Expert and the COO of SeniorCareHomes.com – A trusted and comprehensive online directory of Senior Care Homes such as Assisted Living, Nursing Homes and other types of Senior Housing in California, Florida, New York, Arizona and the rest of the United States. SeniorCareHomes.com also provides FREE Assisted Living options to help seniors and families find the best Senior Housing on the planet!

Articles Related To Senior Driving:

How Does Age Affect Driving?
Can People with Alzheimer’s Be Safe Drivers?
Aging and Your Eyes
Hearing Loss and Older Adults
When Should Seniors Stop Driving?

Kate Allado | Senior Advocate / Care Advisor( State Licensed Certified Administrator | Co-Founder at SeniorCareHomes.Com )

Catharine “Kate” is a Certified Administrator for Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly (RCFE) and an Expert Senior Care Advisor. Kate’s grandmother battled Alzheimer’s Disease and Kate personally understands what millions of families are going through. Kate and her team are very passionate in empowering Seniors and their families by providing them with the Best Available Senior Care Options based on Senior’s care needs, preferred location and family’s budget.