We all value the ability to retain as much of our independence as possible as we grow older. Being able to drive safely can give us a lot more freedom and choice around where we’re able to go without assistance. However, as our minds and bodies deteriorate, it can be harder to get behind the wheel and stay safe on the roads.
Whether it’s due to reduced reaction times or impaired vision, our physical health is intrinsically linked with good driving habits. But have you ever stopped to think about the connection between driving and our mental wellbeing? There is actually a close relationship between the two – being able to drive is good for our mental health, and good mental health can improve driving skills. In this guide, we delve into these links when it comes to driving in old age to help keep you safe on the road.The benefits of driving for independence and mental health
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Firstly, it’s important to understand the value of having access to a car as a senior for your mental health. Ultimately, it’s pivotal in helping you to maintain autonomy. Rather than relying on public transport schedules or help from friends, family or carers, you can find your own way to the shops, day clubs or wherever you need to go.
In turn, this can give your emotional wellbeing a boost, since being able to drive can help reduce feelings of isolation as it becomes easier to interact with people outside of your home. Even if you’re just going to the shops, driving is a means to engage in more social activities and maintain relationships that might otherwise deteriorate without a reliable method of getting from A to B.
Potential mental health challenges related to driving
Unfortunately, there are a lot of mental health challenges that commonly arise as we age. These can have a direct impact on how safe it is to get behind the wheel. It’s important to address any potential challenges to your ability to drive safely as you get older. Just as you would get a physical ailment checked out, it’s equally important not to ignore the signs that your mental health might not be in the best shape. Potential mental health challenges include:
- Anxiety and stress. When our mind is focused on something else, it becomes far more difficult to concentrate on the road and other drivers. This can impair reaction times and our ability to make sound decisions behind the wheel. In addition, lots of facets of driving can worsen feelings of stress, whether there is traffic or time pressure to reach your destination. This vicious cycle only fuels the safety concerns related to stress and anxiety.
- Cognitive decline. It’s no secret that a healthy brain is key to staying safe behind the wheel since we’re constantly having to make decisions that can directly impact both our and other drivers’ safety. It’s important to recognize early signs of cognitive issues that may affect driving. These could include memory loss, confusion or more commonly losing your train of thought.
Although cognitive decline can affect you before getting a diagnosis, one study found that drivers with Alzheimer's had an average of 0.09 road traffic accidents annually. This figure is more than double the number of crashes in healthy adults of comparable ages.
Safety tips for seniors to enhance driving experience
Even if you notice some of these factors impacting your mental health, it doesn’t mean you invariably have to give up driving. There are several things you can do to enhance your safety and your driving experience. First of all, regular health check ups can identify any potential concerns (either mental or physical) and help you put steps in place to limit their impact on your wellbeing. In addition, modern technology allows for a range of adjustments to be made to your vehicle, providing extra assistance on the road. These could include steering wheel aids, hoists and specialized seating, allowing you to fully focus on the road ahead.
In addition, if you notice signs of cognitive decline or other mental wellbeing concerns, it can be helpful to take some extra consideration around safe driving practices. Think about planning your routes more carefully before setting off and giving yourself extra time to reach your destination; both of these things can help to avoid distractions and keep your mind on the road. This becomes even more pertinent when driving at night, as low-light conditions make it harder to spot potential hazards. Where possible, try to plan your trips during daylight hours, and if you have to drive at night, make sure you have properly prepared yourself and your car for the journey ahead.
Safety first
Mental health can impact so many different facets of our lives as we age. When your safety and that of your fellow drivers is at stake, it becomes all the more important to address any potential concerns that could impact your driving skills. If you’re concerned, speak to your healthcare professional or trusted family and friends to discuss your options. Being able to drive is a pivotal part of maintaining independence, but when it’s no longer safe to do so, the risks far outweigh the benefits.
Author bio: John Michael Clement
As a grandfather of two, Michael often travels across the state to visit his family. He aims to share actionable tips to help seniors live happier, healthier lives and get the most out of their retirement. Writing is also one of his hobbies, which he enjoys pursuing during his free time.
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