Senior Drivers Face Challenges...
There are many advantages to being a senior driver. Their experience and know-how on the road are invaluable! But on the flip-side, there's a fair few challenges that come with it as well. So we're going to offer a helping hand here, folks. The following points could make your life a lot easier as an aging motorist — and we've included some advice for loved ones, too.
Pick the Right Car
Younger motorists won't have too many problems driving a manual car — but the same can't always be said for seniors! If you suffer with stiff muscles or arthritis, stick shifts can be a bit of a nightmare. So consider automatic options when picking a vehicle. They'll put less strain on your body.
Don’t Take Risks
There's no denying that some motorists have a tendency to take risks on the road. But should you do that as a senior? Absolutely not! Remember — delayed reaction times come with age. One miscalculated risk could end in disaster. So go with the flow of traffic. Don't get too close to the vehicle in front of you. Play it safe, folks.
Manage Your Health
To kick things off, let's focus on your health. If you want to continue driving as a senior, it's vital that you stay on top of this. Daily exercise can make you more nimble behind the wheel, as can a good night's rest. In addition to that, it might be wise to visit your doctor for vision and eye exams. They could help prolong your time on the road.
Staying Comfortable on the Road
There's nothing wrong with recognizing your limitations as a driver. It's a good thing! But this thought process is especially important when you're a senior motorist. The more comfortable you are behind the wheel, the better. So if you don't like driving on freeways, or navigating roads at night, change your routine. It could make a huge difference.
Listen to Your Loved Ones
Sometimes, it can be all too easy to dismiss the concerns of your loved ones when it comes to your driving skills. But as a senior, it might be wise to pay attention to them. Could their worries be valid? After all, they've got your best interests at heart.
Defensive Driving Courses
As a senior driver, have you ever thought about taking a defensive driving course? No? Well, now might be the time to reconsider! These courses can help sharpen your ability going forward. They can also refresh your memory when it comes to the rules of the road.
Be Aware of Senior Driving Laws and Regulations
Did you know that there are different senior driving laws and regulations in each American state? If not, you may want to brush up on those rules as soon as possible! For instance, they can affect license renewals. It's better to be aware of this stuff beforehand than getting caught cold, right?
Renewing Your License
As we just alluded to, renewing your license as a senior can be quite tricky. How often do you have to do it? It all depends on your home state. To give you some examples, Iowa dictates that 80-year-old motorists have to renew every couple of years — but restrictions could be added to the license. Meanwhile, drivers of the same age have a six-year window in Florida.
Retaking Tests?
Is there anything else you should know about license renewals as an older motorist? You bet! In some instances, you might have to retake your driving exams to get over the line. We're talking both the written and road tests here, folks. You may need to complete a vision test, too.
Could You Qualify for a Handicapped Parking Permit?
How are you on your feet these days? Do you need a cane or walker to move around comfortably outside your car? If so, you could be granted a handicapped parking permit by your state. But remember, folks — the requirements can differ depending on where you are. It's worth researching!
Don’t Be Afraid to Switch Car Insurance Companies
When you're settled with a reliable car insurance company, switching is probably the last thing on your mind. But you should consider it as a senior — especially if the price goes up due to your age. By looking at different companies, you might find a policy that's more friendly to older drivers.
A Clean Driving Record Could Save You Big Money...
Discounts are another big advantage of switching car insurance companies as a senior motorist. You might save big money here if you're eligible! For instance, a clean driving record could knock a decent percentage off the coverage you're looking at. Every little helps, right?
... And There Are Other Ways to Save, Too!
Holding a clean driving record isn't the only way to bag a discount, folks. Yep, you can also save money if you're an armed forces veteran or a retired federal worker. How much are we talking here? Well, the discounts typically fall between 12 percent and 15 percent. Not bad!
It’s Time to Buy a New Car — What Should You Look for?
You mustn't rush into buying a new car when you're a senior. It's best to take your time and assess all the options. Will the vehicle in question suit your needs as an older driver? If you're not sure what to look for, the following points should put you on the right path...
Safety Options
Car safety features are ridiculously advanced today. They're a huge help! And that's great news for senior motorists. Newer additions, such as rear-view cameras and parking sensors, can make driving a lot easier. So it might be wise to check if those features are available in the vehicle you're eyeing up.
Interior Comfort
A car might look perfect on the outside — but you shouldn't make a decision based on that alone. Check the interior first! As a senior, you don't want to be dealing with uncomfortable seats, or a steering wheel that obstructs your view.
The Importance of Access
When younger motorists buy cars, access isn't near the top of their checklist. It should be for older drivers, though! If you're finding it tough to get in and out of a vehicle at a dealership, it might not be the one for you. Check out the other options around you.
Understanding New Tech
Vehicles are loaded with updated technology now — it's a far-cry from the past! So before pulling away in your new car, be sure to ask questions if you don't understand how the on-board tech works. The people at the dealership could be a big help here.
Considering Your Future Behind the Wheel
As an older driver, experience and confidence can definitely extend your time on the road. But there will be a stage when you need to consider your future behind the wheel. How do you go about that? Well, the following points could help you out, folks.
Evaluating Your Driving Skills
When assessing your future as a driver, take a long, hard look at your skills. Do you have trouble controlling the speed of your car now? Are you constantly getting lost in places you're otherwise familiar with? Do you forget to use the turn signals? Don't be afraid to ask yourself tough questions like this!
Mental Challenges
Speaking of tough questions, it's also wise to evaluate your mental strength at this stage. Are you getting stressed behind the wheel now? Would you say you're more prone to road rage than in years past? If so, they're not great signs.
Alternative Transport Options Are Out There
If driving is becoming more tough for you as a senior, try not to fret — there are other modes of transport you can call upon. Services such as Lyft or Uber are very handy. They're simple to use, too! But that's not all...
Don’t Discount Public Transportation!
If you're not sure about modern ride-sharing, you could always go for a tried-and-tested option. Yep, public transportation is well worth a look, folks. It won't cost you an arm and leg to use, and some services actually offer door-to-door rides for those who need it.
On the Flip-Side — How Can Loved Ones Support You?
All in all, considering your future on the road can be relentlessly difficult. It's a decision that no one really wants to make, even if they have to. But know this — your loved ones can help you through this. How? Well, they could take the following advice on board...
Planning the Conversation
If an older person's driving skills are declining and they show no signs of stepping away, it might be time for a loved one to address it. Due to the potentially sensitive nature of the conversation, though, it's got to be carefully planned. You could look to bring it up during a quiet, chilled period of the day.
Reflective Listening
During the big conversation, it may be a good idea to use reflective listening. This technique encourages the listener to vocally summarize what they're hearing, showing that they understand the speaker's predicament. It can make the driving discussion much easier!
Addressing Specific Worries
If you're able to get your elderly relative to open up, you might get the chance to address any specific concerns they raise. For example, are their driving skills being affected by decling eyesight? You could help out here by taking them to the local eye specialist.
Aiding the Transition From Driving
When your older relative does decide to hang up the keys for good, don't walk away. There's still so much you can do to help them. Talk about their good times behind the wheel, and listen out for any post-car worries. Your presence could make a positive difference!
Navigating a Car-Free Life
For a lot of older people, giving up driving feels like a loss of independence. It can be a very low moment in their life. But you could take steps to guide them through it. From organizing alternative transport to finding non-driving hobbies, help whichever way you can.
