2023-09-17 07:30:00
Can elderly people drive? It is often a question of many people. People say that getting older Will certain parts of the body deteriorate with age and will it affect driving?
being an elderly person Even though the body is deteriorating or not as strong as during youth But many elderly people Still want to live a normal life. I want to be able to do things myself without having to rely on others. I don’t want to be a burden on my children. I want to be able to go anywhere by myself. As a result, we often see elderly people going out, buying things, or doing various activities. Outside the house without supervision Some elderly people choose to travel by public bus. But some elderly people drive themselves. Many people saw Therefore, the question arises: Can elderly people actually drive? And what kind of driving will be safe?
Question: Can elderly people drive? In fact Age is not a restriction on driving. But the main limitation is more than physical condition. Because if your physical condition is not ready while driving There will be danger at all. The physical condition is probably all regarding the senses. Whether it’s vision, hearing, nervous system, and also the physical condition that is ready to use normally.
6 Checklists before seniors drive for safety
However, even the elderly who are in perfect physical condition Ready to drive, but drive safely. There are still other factors and matters. that must be considered include To allow the elderly to drive safely There are 6 important matters to consider as follows:
1. Check your body’s readiness.
readiness of the body It is the most important matter for evaluating that. Can elderly people drive? which if very serious You may need to consult with your doctor for a physical examination. Or assess readiness to see if elderly people can drive at all. But if evaluated by general principles For the elderly to drive You would probably look at these things, such as the brain must be clear, not cloudy, have concentration and good intentions. Make quick and accurate decisions, be agile, nimble, and agile when critical situations arise. There is coordination of various parts. of the body well, such as between the hands, arms, legs, neck, etc., with sufficient muscle strength moving parts of the body well Good vision and hearing, these things, if the elderly have abnormalities in any aspect It will easily cause accidents.
For seniors who are over 85 years old and have vision problems. have dementia Including suffering from various diseases such as eye disease, dementia, paralysis from cerebrovascular disease. Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, osteoarthritis, arthritis, heart disease and diabetes. Or even the fact that the elderly have medicines to take regularly and of many types. You shouldn’t drive either. Because it’s easy to have an accident.
2. Check the condition of the car to make it ready for use.
Condition of the car that the elderly will drive Must be ready to use All equipment is complete, not defective or damaged. Engine condition has been inspected. Motor oil, radiator, and enough gas for the trip. Seniors, don’t forget to carry your driver’s license. car insurance Important documents regarding the car Take it with you every time. Including having to dress and wear shoes. To be suitable for driving as well
3. Plan your trip
elderly people to drive You should plan your trip. By specifying the route used to reach the destination. Do not use unfamiliar routes. and check what the route used is like Is there heavy traffic? Or is the route currently under maintenance? Or construction? which if the elderly cannot check the route by themselves You may have your children help inspect or check the condition of the route first. In addition, the elderly should not drive on routes that are too long distances. If you have to drive a long distance You should stop and rest along the way. In order not to make the body too tired
4. Check the weather
If the elderly have to travel long distances Especially traveling to other provinces. You should check the weather conditions. Especially during the rainy season Because the road is slippery and accidents are easy. The time of driving also affects the likelihood of accidents. For example, elderly people should not drive during the night. Because it makes vision not as good as it should be or driving during days with bad weather There is a lot of dust and smoke. If these factors can be avoided, driving by the elderly will be will be more secure
5. Drive according to traffic rules.
Driving according to traffic rules Helps reduce road accidents. which everyone should strictly follow Not only the elderly Whether it is a matter of driving at the specified speed. wearing a seat belt Not violating light signals, etc.
6. Have friends along the way
Even though the elderly can drive themselves But it’s safe to travel. You should have a friend traveling with you. Especially on long distance routes Because if something unexpected happens or something requires help Fellow travelers will be able to help each other. Or at least be a friend to talk to. Make you not sleepy Or maybe help drive When the elderly feel tired or fatigued
All of these are 6 important things that seniors need to prepare for. Before driving for safety Which should answer the question: Can elderly people drive? Because if you strictly follow all 6 points, you believe that Elderly people will definitely be able to travel anywhere safely.
Reference information: Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital Mahidol University
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