Now that more seniors than ever are choosing to stay in their homes as they get older the number of seniors who are still driving is increasing too. Seniors that are aging in place continue driving because they like being independent. But seniors do have to make some adjustments to how they drive as they get older to compensate for things like worsening eyesight and slower reflexes.
It’s recommended that seniors avoid driving at night if possible. Seniors who have in-home care can have their in-home care provider drive them to the gym, shopping, or anywhere else they need to go after it gets dark. But if seniors do need to drive in the dark they should use these tips to improve their vision and decrease their chances of having an accident:
Get Your Eyes Checked Often
The foundation of safe night driving for seniors is regular eye examinations. An optometrist or ophthalmologist can detect age-related vision changes, such as cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration, and prescribe corrective measures. Typically seniors get their eyes checked once a year, but seniors that are driving should get their eyes checked at least twice a year.
Wear Your Glasses
If you have a prescription for eyeglasses, make sure to wear them while driving at night. Your glasses are designed to correct your vision and provide better visibility. Consider lenses with anti-reflective coatings, as they reduce glare from oncoming headlights, streetlights, and other sources, improving night vision.
Keep Your Car Clean
Keep your windshield, headlights, and taillights clean. Dirt and debris on these surfaces can scatter light and impair visibility, especially at night. Get regular car washes and consider getting a coating on the glass that will help repel dust and debris as well as water from rain or snow.
Check Your Headlights Often
Ensure that your vehicle’s headlights are clean, properly aimed, and in good working condition. Dim or misaligned headlights can greatly reduce your visibility at night.
Use High Beams Properly
When driving on poorly lit roads, use high beams to maximize your field of vision. However, be courteous and switch to low beams when approaching or following other vehicles to avoid blinding other drivers.
Take It Slow
Slowing down at night can provide more time to react to unexpected situations. Maintaining a safe speed is especially important for seniors, as it gives them a better chance to stop in time if needed. When seniors are driving at night they should always stay in the right lane and go as slow as they need to go to be safe.
Leave More Distance Between Vehicles
Leave more space between your vehicle and the one in front of you. This increased following distance provides additional reaction time and reduces the risk of rear-end collisions.
Stay Alert
Fatigue can significantly affect your night vision. Make sure you are well-rested before driving at night, and if you become drowsy while driving, pull over in a safe location and take a break. If possible, have an in-home care provider or family member with you who can take over driving if you’re too tired.
Use Adaptive Headlights
If your vehicle is equipped with adaptive headlights that turn with the direction of your steering, use them. These headlights can illuminate the road ahead more effectively.
Take Familiar Routes
Plan your trips during daylight hours when possible. If you need to drive at night, choose well-lit routes and familiar roads to reduce the risk of getting lost.
Minimize Distractions
Remove distractions in the vehicle, such as adjusting the radio, texting, or eating while driving. Focusing on the road is vital for safe night driving.
Take A Night Driving Course
Consider enrolling in a night driving course designed specifically for seniors. These courses can teach strategies for improving night vision and dealing with challenging conditions.
Know When to Stop
Be honest with yourself about your night vision capabilities. If you feel that your vision is severely impaired at night, or if you experience discomfort or increased anxiety while driving at night, it may be best to limit or avoid night driving altogether.
If you or an aging loved one are considering in-home care in Coronado, CA please contact the caring staff at A Caring Touch Home Care today. Call (619) 344-0528
A Caring Touch Home Care is a Trusted Home Care Agency providing exceptional home care in Coronado, Del Mar / Del Mar Heights, Bonita, East Lake, La Jolla, Torrey Pines, Mt. Helix/ La Mesa, Carlsbad, Oceanside, Carmel Ranch, Rancho Penasquitos, Point Loma, Rancho Santa Fe, San Diego and surrounding areas.
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