Elderwerks Senior Resource Directory 2025/2026

OLDER DRIVER SAFETY

• Know that an automatic transmission, power steering and brakes, and other special equipment can make it easier for you to drive your vehicle and use the foot pedals. • Reduce your driver’s side blind spot by moving your mirrors. • Consider finding reliable alternative transportation options, i.e., public transportation or ride sharing services. Does driving make you feel nervous, scared or overwhelmed? Do you… • Feel confused by traffic signs, and people and cars in traffic? • Take medicine that makes you sleepy? • Get dizzy, or have seizures or losses of consciousness? • React slowly to normal driving situations? If you said “Yes” to any of these questions, you should stop driving until the condition has been addressed** and you have developed a plan to drive safely or to use an alternate means of transportation. If you return to driving, please consider... • Asking your doctor if your health or side effects from your medicine can affect your driving. • Taking routes that you know. • Trying to drive during the day (avoid rush hour). • Keeping a safe distance between you and the car ahead of you. • Always scanning the road while you are driving so that you are ready for any problems and can plan your actions.

Don’t forget: When you are driving or riding in a car, always wear your seat belt. Make sure that every person who is riding with you is also buckled up.

**No one who answers yes to any of these questions should drive, as they pose a risk to themselves and to other road users. Are Loved ones concerned about your driving? Sometimes other people notice things about your driving that you might have missed. Have people you know and trust said they were concerned about your driving? • Talk with your doctor. Ask him or her to check the side effects of any medicines you are taking. • Try walking, carpooling, public transit, and other forms of transportation. Do you drive with others, especially children or young adults? If you drive with others in the car, especially children or young adults, you carry an extra responsibility. When used the correct way, car seats, booster seats and seat belts offer the best protection for children and adults who are traveling in motor vehicles. United States laws require that children be properly secured in a car seat or seat belt, as appropriate for their age and size. The back seat is the safest place for all children under 13 to ride. Most States also require that motorists and adult passengers be properly buckled in a seat belt. If so, consider the following…​ For many older adults, driving is a sign of independence. While most people want to keep driving for as long as they can, no one wants to be a threat to themselves or to others because they are no longer able to drive safely. Self-awareness, both physical and mental; regular checkups with your primary care provider and eye exams are the keys to preserving independence and to continue driving safely.

www.nhtsa.gov/road-safety/older-drivers

“ Growing old is mandatory, but growing up is optional! ” Walt Disney

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