Older drivers: 7 tips for driver safety
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1. Stay physically active
2. Schedule regular vision and hearing tests
3. Manage medications
4. Understand your limitations
5. Drive when the roads — and you — are in good condition
6. Stash your cellphone and focus on the road
7. Update your driving skills
4. Understand your limitations
Consider your physical limitations and make any necessary adjustments. For example, if your hands hurt when gripping the steering wheel, use a steering wheel cover that makes holding and turning the wheel more comfortable.
You might ask your doctor for a referral to an occupational therapist, who can offer assistive devices to help you drive or suggest exercises to help you overcome your limitations.
You might also adjust your vehicle or choose a different vehicle to better meet your needs. For example, vehicles that feature larger, easier-to-read dials on the dashboard are often popular with older drivers. In addition, some newer models offer safety features that can help you avoid collisions, change lanes safely, manage your blind spot and more.
