How to Drive Safer, Longer: Senior Guide for Safe Driving

Safety precautions are necessary for every driver. We make sure seatbelts are buckled, gas tanks are full and the car is in working order. As we age, though, we may need to ensure extra safeguards are met when getting behind the wheel. Take extra time to evaluate your driving ability, including the possibility of additional measures to ensure your safety. In this post, you’ll discover senior driving tips from The Oaks at Denville that can help keep you driving safer for longer.

Senior Safe Driving Tips

• Limit Your Distractions: According to the National Highway Traffic Association, 3,166 lives were claimed in 2017 by distracted driving incidents. The recommendation to limit your distractions is not only for older drivers, but all drivers in general. You need your full attention on the road in order to be a functional and safe driver. Turn off your cell phone, limit the level of activity inside the car and set your radio and navigation system before you begin driving.
• Take a Refresher Driving Course: Although you may not need to take a vision or road test when renewing your license, it could benefit you to take a refresher driving course. Taking time to refamiliarize yourself with rules and regulations of the road will ensure your driving capabilities are up to par and may help to determine what, if any, additional safety measures you may have to take. You can find a course near you using the AARP Smart Driver Course Locator.
• Learn Your Limitations: Make the necessary adjustments for safety and comfort when driving. If your back hurts, place an appropriate support on the driver’s seat. Re-adjust your mirrors to limit extensive neck motion that could result in aches. And make sure you consult with your doctor – they may have recommendations based on any medications you have or suggest a vision and hearing test.
• Hang Up the Keys if Necessary: It’s possible that we reach a point in our lives that it is in our best interest to stop driving and look to other modes of transportation. Thankfully, there are more options available today than ever before. Public transportation selections include the transit and bus routes, and newer ride-sharing solutions like Uber and Lyft are especially useful for those who are tech-savvy.

Learn How to Maintain Your Mobile Independence with The Oaks at Denville

At The Oaks at Denville, we make it so that you don’t even need to drive in order to maintain your independence. In fact, when you consider the hassle of vehicle ownership, you may realize how easy the decision is to hang up your keys. We offer shuttle services that will get you where you need to go. Weekly shopping trips include visits to Bed Bath and Beyond, Michael’s and the Rockaway Mall. Or, take advantage of off-campus day trips to places like the National Museum of Industrial History, a bus tour of Denville or a lunch cruise on the River Belle.

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.