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The Effects Of Aging On Driving Skills

  Next:  Understand Changing Abilities

What You Should Know

During the next few decades, millions of baby boomers will become active senior adults who rely on driving to maintain independence. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 1 in 4 American drivers will be older than 65 by the year 2030.

If you are among these individuals, chances are that long before you are ready to stop driving, you will undergo physical changes that may jeopardize your safety behind the wheel. Surprisingly, these changes may begin as early as age 40.

  • Peripheral vision begins to narrow, making it more difficult to see other vehicles, pedestrians and street signs.
  • Decreased hearing makes it more difficult to hear sirens, horns and other warning sounds.
  • Eyes need more light to see adequately at dusk and at night.
  • Flexibility and strength begin declining.
  • The ability to perceive distance and speed diminishes.
  • Prescription medications may slow response time and affect other driving skills.

Whether you are age 40, 50 or even 70, you can take steps to prolong your safe driving abilities. This publication includes tools and information to help you:

  • Understand the physical changes that occur with age.
  • Know how these changes affect driving.
  • Adjust driving behaviors over time.

With diligence, you can enjoy safe driving and the independence it provides for years to come.

Topics covered in this section are:

Understand Changing Abilities
What You Can Do
What About Your Vehicle
Plan Alternate Transportation
Know When To Stop Driving

  Next:  Understand Changing Abilities