Seniors Drive Responsibly
Overall, older adults are
relatively safe and conscientious drivers.
However, we all need to be aware that physical changes may interfere with
our abilities to drive responsibly. In
order to keep on driving you need to plan ahead, think responsibly and look at
the big picture. Don’t let your stubbornness
get in the way. Take driving safety
classes, work with your doctor, consult driving rehabilitation specialists to take
advantage of special equipment that can help you compensate for any physical
problems that you might have.
If you feel the least little
bit nervous about driving in the evening, driving on the freeway or anywhere
unfamiliar to you, by all means take a refresher course on car safety. Products such as “smart mirrors” are often
recommended as one of the ways to expand your view of the roadway.
It isn’t always age, but
physical limitations due to other conditions as well, that can interfere with
road safety. Arthritis Today magazine
(September/October 2008) features an article on Smart Mirrors. Smart Mirrors can enable drivers to detect
cars in what has traditionally been known as “the blind spot.” Many new luxury and mid-priced cars are
already installing features that will help drivers see into areas beyond their
peripheral vision. Some of the smart
mirrors can not only detect objects in the blind spot but will alert the driver
with a visual signal or a chime.
Similar mirrors, such as
those by LaneFx (www.lanefx.com) can be
purchased and installed in any car that has power windows. Also check out the Smart-Clip Allview Mirror
(www.allviewmirror.com) or MultiFlex
Adjust-A-View Safety Mirror (www.multiflexmirror.com)
for low-cost, lower tech options.
The technology is already
available to help you drive responsibly for years to come.
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