For many, being able to drive is a sign of freedom. It also relates to independence for older individuals. It is liberating to be able to jump into your car and run errands, go on a trip, or just visit a friend’s house for supper. Even though age brings about inescapable changes like less flexibility, older individuals do not always have to give up driving. Age shouldn’t be the determining factor when it comes to considering when to stop driving. The idea that elderly drivers pose a risk to other road users is untrue as teenage drivers cause more accidents than older ones, particularly men aged 16 to 19. That being said, driving safety is an issue that the elderly and their family members need to be aware of and vigilant about. Sometimes, it comes down to picking the correct vehicles or getting the necessary adapted equipment to enable you to continue operating a vehicle safely. Here are a couple of tips for those buying a car in retirement.
Consider Senior-Friendly Cars
Vehicles were evaluated for a range of safety features, including those that have an impact on older individuals. Particular attention is paid to features including intuitive controls, visibility, front seat access, easy-to-read gauges, and high-performance headlights. Lane-departure notification, parallel parking assistance, and backup cameras are some safety features that are often optional but nonetheless beneficial. Others include adaptable foot pedals and an adjustable steering wheel.
Consider the following cars that are ranked highest for safety and senior-friendly features:
- Kia Sportage
- Subaru Forester
- Kia Forte
- Subaru Outback
- Toyota Corolla
- Ford Escape
- Chrysler Pacifica
- Nissan Rogue
There are driving aids and gadgets that can be helpful, in addition to having a car that is simpler to access and operate. Examining any restrictions that might have an impact on an older individual’s driving ability is frequently the first step.
Identify Potential Challenges
Older drivers can evaluate their abilities using a Self-Rating Tool provided by the American Automobile Association (AAA). This quick test will reveal a driver’s skills and shortcomings and provide advice for overcoming their limitations.
Driving aids can often be the solution to these limitations. The following potential challenges can be addressed with these adaptive tools:
- Car caddie for boarding and disembarking a vehicle.
- Brake and gas pedal extenders.
- Adapters and extenders for side and rearview mirrors.
- Swiveling seat cushions that make it simpler to get behind the wheel.
- Pulls to help open and close the seat belt more easily.
An occupational therapist is often an excellent resource for completing an in-person skills evaluation and locating tools that could increase driver safety. Occupational therapists who have undergone specific training are known as driving specialists.
Having a car in your golden years is a great source of freedom. However, our retirement community provides complimentary chauffeured transportation that gets you anywhere you wish to go, so you don’t have to worry about transportation even if you don’t drive. If you are considering a move to a senior living community after your retirement, schedule a tour with us to find out more about our independent living community!
