Prince Edward Island handbook · chapter 9 · 3 min read

Mature Driver

Chapter 9: Mature Driver THE OLDER BUT WISER DRIVER After years spent behind the wheel, many senior drivers have developed the skills, behaviours and attitudes that keep them, and their fellow drivers, safe on our roads. Studies show that older drivers are more likely to obey the rules of the road, drive within posted speed limits and really take to heart the prohibition against drinking and driving.

Unfortunately, aging can take its toll on sight, hearing, judgment of speed and distance, memory, attention and reflexes. These changes can creep up so gradually that older drivers don’t notice any impact on their driving ability, until, one day, they are in a crash.

The good news is that we can compensate for the effects of aging. All drivers, and especially older drivers, can minimize their risks on the road by maintaining physical well-being through proper diet and exercise, planning their trips carefully, driving defensively and choosing a vehicle that meets their needs.

Overall well-being contributes to driving performance, so it is important that drivers talk with their doctors about any problems that may interfere with their driving. Regular check-ups and eye exams can reveal specific conditions that affect driving. Some medications can have an affect on driving performance, so be sure to discuss this with your physician. It is important for every driver, regardless of age, to understand how medications and drug interactions can affect them. Even over-the-counter drugs can cause drowsiness, slow reaction time, diminished concentration, blurred vision and impaired mobility.

Ideally, drivers should assess their own driving performance and try to identify situations that challenge them on the road. Here are some questions that can help you assess your status as a driver.

In the past few months, have you: