The Life in Bloom Blog

Senior Driving Guide

Senior Living | 11/27/19

No matter our age, there are safety precautions every driver must take before hitting the road to ensure responsible driving. We make sure seatbelts are on, mirrors are adjusted, and the car is in working order. As we age, though, we may need to ensure extra safeguards are met when getting ready to drive. In this post, you’ll discover senior driving tips from Meadow Lakes that can help keep you driving safer for longer.

Senior Safe Driving Tips

• Assess Your Abilities: Before anything else, take a moment to understand your current abilities and limitations when it comes to getting behind the wheel. Organizations like AAA offer self-rating driving assessments that help you examine your abilities. If you want a bit of a refresher, you can also find an adult driving course near you using the AARP Smart Driver Course.
• Make Adjustments: Make the necessary adjustments for safety and comfort when driving, like adding a pillow behind your back or moving the mirrors to limit excessive neck motion that can lead to aches. By allowing yourself to be more comfortable behind the wheel, you’ll be better and more focused on the road.
• Consult with Your Doctor: Talk to your healthcare provider to learn more about potential side effects of medications that could limit your success behind the wheel. While you’re there, ask for a vision and hearing test to make sure your most important senses while driving are up to par.
• Limit Your Distractions: This piece of advice is crucial for any driver, regardless of age. Turn your cell phone notifications off, adjust your radio and set your navigation system prior to putting the car in drive. When you’re behind the wheel, your only priority is to get to your intended destination safely and effectively.

Learn How to Maintain Your Mobile Independence with Meadow Lakes

At Meadow Lakes, you don’t need a driver’s license to maintain your independence. In fact, you may not even want to bother with the hassle of vehicle ownership when you consider how easy it is to get where you want to go. Throughout the week, you can take advantage of off-campus trips to grocery stores and area attractions.

Meadow Lakes even hosts a travel group for those looking for a little extra adventure. Resident Fred Koved shares, “The Travel Group at Meadow Lakes provides the opportunity for residents to plan trips to a destination of their choice and experience the trip together as a group.” Trips have included New England where they attended a performance by the Boston Symphony, the Hudson Valley in New York and the Finger Lakes via a custom motor coach.

No matter where you want to go, we can help you get there. Come see for yourself. Contact us today to schedule your tour of our community.