Sadly, according to the CDC, the risk of being in a motor
vehicle accident increases with age, and this figure drastically increases when
an individual turns 65. This is especially evident in the senior population,
and it can be a serious problem for all drivers. There are several factors that
affect a senior’s driving. Some seniors are able to modify their driving habits
to address these issues, but being aware of these potential pitfalls is the
best way to prevent a motor vehicle accident. Do you know how and why driving
can be affected by age?
• The elderly experience declines in vision which can impact
their driving in several ways. Aside from the impact on their visual field and
perception, their depth perception can be impacted. All of this can create
blind-spots in a senior’s vision that can lead to accidents.
• Additionally, they can experience a general decline in
strength and flexibility. This can impact things such as their ability to turn
the steering wheel and their ability to coordinate their feet between the brake
and gas pedals.
• Seniors experience general cognitive declines that
influence reaction time and their ability to reason, both of which are crucial
to driving.
• The elderly can suffer from decreased hearing which will
impact their ability to hear horns and other cars.
• Furthermore, seniors are more likely to be on medications
that can have side effects such as dizziness, fatigue and confusion.
Being aware of these changes is one of the best ways to
prevent a motor vehicle related accident. In our next section, we will explore
different ways seniors can modify their driving. Here are some other resources
for individuals looking to learn more about how aging impacts driving.
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