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Tips for safe driving
By Jeanne Siegel, Elder Services Planner
On a recent "Berkshire Senior TV" program, host Jeanne Siegel discussed various aspects of safe driving for older persons with Bertha Lawrence, the State coordinator for AARP’s Driver Safety Program, and Herbert Lawrence, one of the instructors for the course. The ability to remain a safe driver is critical to maintaining independence. Traffic safety is vital for drivers of all ages, but older drivers experience physical changes that can affect driving ability—changes in vision, reaction time and flexibility.
AARP offers an 8 hour refresher course geared specially for older persons that can help improve driving skills. To find out more information on the Driver Safety Program and to register for the course call 1-888-227-7669 or visit the web site: www.aarp.org/drive.
Here are some suggestions from AARP about how to become an older and wiser driver.
Vision
Some 90 percent of driving decisions are based on information acquired through the eyes, thus good vision is crucial to safe driving.
• Get regular eye exams—at least every two years.
• If you have trouble with night vision or glare, limit driving to daytime.
• Turn your head frequently to compensate for diminished peripheral vision.
• Keep headlights, mirrors, and windshield clean.
• Keep your eyes up—look ahead to see trouble before you reach it.
Cognition
Age lengthens the time it takes the brain to process information and also makes it harder to ignore distractions.
• Allow more distance between you and the vehicle ahead, so you will have plenty of time to stop.
• Avoid left turns.
• Eliminate distractions, such as the radio or cellular phone. If people in the car are distracting you, tell them they will have a safer ride if they’re quiet.
• Plan your route ahead so you won’t reach an intersection and have to make a last-minute decision.