SAGA — Doing things properly

Safer driving for older drivers – some helpful advice.

Driving can often be challenging, regardless of your age. So if you’re a driver over 50, or an older driver, then you may well find life on the UK’s roads a little more demanding than you’d like.

But there’s no need to worry. There are several things you can do to ensure your driving is just as good as anyone else on the road. Take good care of yourself physically. Make sure that you keep your driving skills up-to-date and lastly, think about where you want to drive and how you wish to get there.

Let’s take a look at things in a little more detail.

By following some basic advice, you can continue to get behind the wheel, with the reassurance and confidence, that leaves any worries safely in your rear view mirror.

Get physical

It stands to reason really. The more active you are, the more likely that your strength and manoeuvrability will help with certain actions involved in driving – perhaps steering or looking over your shoulder. Simply by including a little more walking into your daily routine, you can help improve your physical health. Stretches and light training exercise can help, too. However, before doing so, it’s always a sensible idea to see your GP.

Think about any medical conditions you may have

It’s vitally important to take into account any medical conditions you may be suffering from. It’s also equally essential to take any advice given by your doctor. Another fundamental issue to think about is what sort of medication you may be taking to help stabilise your condition. Some drugs can cause drowsiness, so always ensure you read labels or consult your doctor if in any doubt.

Book regular sight and hearing tests

It’s inevitable. As you grow older, your senses can often deteriorate, so it’s advisable to have regular sight and hearing tests. Common age-related vision problems such as glaucoma or cataracts can often cause problems, especially when driving at night. And not being able to hear traffic or an approaching emergency vehicle could prove to be hazardous.

What are you capabilities?

Think about what you’re actually physically capable of doing. As an older driver you may find that you’re struggling with a particular action required to drive your car. Visit your GP and ask about the possibilities of physiotherapy. It could help.

Consider changing your car

It sounds drastic, but actually, it’s quite a sensible option. Perhaps it would suit you to have a vehicle that’s easier to get in and out of. Or maybe choose a car that features larger dials, so you can read the instruments more easily.

Drive in conditions that suit you

Once again, simple, straightforward advice that makes perfect sense. Drive in conditions that make driving as easy as possible. Make sure, wherever possible, that you drive in daylight and that the weather is good. It also helps if you can drive on roads that you know. Do not try to drive if you feel tired or ill.

Plan your journey

If you do have to drive on unfamiliar roads, ensure that you plan your journey. Nowadays, there’s quite a variety of navigation aids available. The obvious choice is sat nav, of course. But if you’re not happy using high-tech equipment, many organisations, such as the AA, provide web-based journey planning, which gives you a simply, easy-to-follow guide of how to get to your destination.

Keep your driving skills up-to-date

Consider taking a refresher course for older drivers. Updating your driving skills may even earn you a discount on your car insurance, depending on your policy. You can find what courses are available through your local council.

By taking note of these basic tips, there’s no reason why you, as an older driver, can’t clock up as many miles as you like, and still remain a safe, conscientious road user.