Seniors &

Driving Safety

How to Help an Older Driver Understand each individual’s

strengths and weakness Communicate openly and

respectfully Plan early – medical check-ups and

driving assessments, choose a safer car, identify alternative transport

How age affects Driving Sensing – vision, field of vision,

need for more light – reduced hearing also

Deciding – processing all that information slows as we get older

Acting on decisions slows

Impact of Medications on Driving Drowsiness Energy reducers

Ride Along Assessments Does the driver NOT buckle up? Does the driver have problems with

the pedals? Does the driver having problems

with merging traffic? Does the driver get lost or

disoriented easily, even in familiar places?

Helping an Older Driver Cope Schedule regular check-ups and eye

exams Encourage regular exercise Choose the right car Suggest a refresher course Agreeing on safe limits

Retiring from Driving Explore public transportation Enlist help and start a car pool Be supportive

Older drivers give less credibility to family members who criticize their

driving.

Accepting of suggestions from law enforcement officers, doctors, and

friends.

Thanks for your time!

Driving Graphics from “How to Help an Older Driver”AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety

http://www.aaafoundation.org/pdf/ODlarge.pdf