We all know that our health changes as we age, sometimes taking us by surprise. It’s important for older adults to be informed about health conditions that can impair their ability to drive safely. In particular, health conditions that affect attention, cognition, vision, and mobility can have serious and lasting effects on driving ability.
Which Health Conditions Commonly Affect Driving Ability for Older Adults?
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ADHD
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Cognitive changes or impairment
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Chronic pain
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Stroke
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Sleep disorders
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Vision disorders
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is characterized by a variety of symptoms and is commonly underdiagnosed in older adults, many of whom have developed adaptive skills to manage or compensate for their symptoms throughout their lives. When combined with age-related changes in attention, memory, and emotional regulation, ADHD can make operating a vehicle safely more challenging and increase the risk of traffic accidents. It’s important to obtain a proper diagnosis so that symptoms of ADHD are not mistaken for other cognitive impairments, and vice versa. With appropriate diagnosis and treatment, older adults with ADHD may be able to continue driving safely for many years.
Cognitive changes are a natural part of the aging process. Changes such as memory difficulties, reduced information processing speed, and slower reaction times can impair an older adult’s ability to operate a vehicle safely. If an older adult continues to drive despite cognitive impairment, particularly as dementia progresses to include disorientation and difficulty judging speed and distance, driving can become dangerous for both the individual and others on the road.
The best approach is to begin conversations early with older adults about their health and the potential consequences of driving when their safety behind the wheel may be compromised.
Chronic pain, including conditions such as arthritis, can restrict an older adult’s mobility. At a minimum, health conditions that cause chronic pain can make driving uncomfortable and distract a driver’s attention from the road. Chronic pain can also limit mobility, affecting the time it takes to react to a hazard, apply the brakes, or maneuver a vehicle out of harm’s way. A physical therapist can suggest ways to make driving more comfortable and help determine whether adaptive equipment may be beneficial in allowing an older adult to drive comfortably and safely.
Stroke is a health condition that can result in changes to cognition, memory, vision, speech, judgment, and physical coordination. Consequently, a stroke can limit or eliminate a person’s ability to drive safely. A physician can evaluate an older adult’s recovery and help determine whether returning to driving is appropriate. An older adult who has experienced a stroke may also benefit from a specialized driving evaluation, adaptive equipment, or a driver retraining course before getting back behind the wheel.
Sleep disorders, including insomnia and sleep apnea, can affect an older adult’s ability to remain alert and focused while driving. Poor sleep and excessive daytime drowsiness can slow reaction times, reduce concentration, and increase the risk of accidents. Certain medications used to treat sleep problems may also cause drowsiness. Older adults who experience persistent fatigue or difficulty staying awake during the day should speak with their healthcare provider about appropriate evaluation and treatment before continuing to drive.
Vision changes are often among the first and most noticeable health issues associated with aging. These may include needing reading glasses, difficulty seeing at night, and increased sensitivity to bright light. Vision-related medical conditions that become more common with age include cataracts (which cloud the lens), age-related macular degeneration (which affects central vision), and glaucoma (which can affect peripheral vision). These conditions can impair a driver’s ability to see clearly, judge distances, detect and react to hazards, and read road signs. Fortunately, recognizing and addressing vision changes early through regular eye examinations and appropriate medical care can help older adults maintain their ability to drive safely and independently.
Health and Wellness Is a Priority at Everbrook Senior Living
Maintaining good health as we age is essential to quality of life, including the independence and freedom that come with driving a car. At Everbrook Senior Living, each of our residential communities offers state-of-the-art medical and wellness services. Our residents enjoy a wide array of lifestyle activities that support their well-being, along with preventive medical care designed to identify potential health problems early.
To learn more about our affordable luxury residences for older adults, please contact one of our Care Counselors today.