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:
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