Healthy Aging : Preparation can help keep older drivers safe on the road

BOSTON, MA — Chronic illnesses and the use of various medications increase the risk for auto accidents. Even normal, healthy aging can take a toll on a man’s reflexes, reaction time, and sensory abilities. But simple preparations and precautions can help keep older men safely on the road, says the Harvard Men's Health Watch. For example:

Vision. A checkup may find problems that can be corrected in time to prevent a crash. An Alabama study of cataract patients found that corrective surgery cut the risk of car crashes in half. Heart disease. If your heart disease is important enough to require medication, it could be significant enough to affect your driving. Ask your doctor. In nearly all cases, you’ll get a green light. Even so, don’t drive if you don’t feel well. Cognitive impairment. Minor memory lapses that occur with normal aging should not pose any problem, but the forgetfulness, impaired judgment, and loss of directional skills that suggest dementia are very troublesome. The danger is compounded because many people with cognitive impairment don’t know they have a problem. A man concerned about memory problems (or his spouse) should seek an evaluation with a doctor.

“You can’t stop the clock, but you can slow its tick,” says Harvey Simon, M.D., Harvard Medical School faculty member and editor of the Harvard Men's Health Watch. Work with your doctor to reduce your risk of falling ill and to detect and treat problems early. Stay mentally and physically active to keep your mind and body sharp. Consider a driving evaluation for seniors, and don't be too proud—or stubborn—to adjust your driving patterns to fit new realities, even if they are unpleasant.

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