April is Distracted Driver Awareness Month. Limiting practices that take your eyes off the road is important to safer driving. For older drivers, this can be especially important. With age, reaction times can get longer, and in an emergency, every second counts. This article will provide tips for minimizing distracted driving for older adults.
Medication Reminders While Driving
Reminders or phone alarms to take your pills can be incredibly helpful for your daily medications. When driving, however, they can cause distractions. When setting reminders, consider enabling voice commands to stop alarms. This prevents you from looking away from the road to turn off the alarm. When you are safely able to do so, pull over and take your pills. If you are driving on the highway, pull off at a local exit or a gas station stop and park. Not only will this reduce distracted driving, but it can also reduce the risk of you taking the wrong pills at the wrong time.
Smart Eating While Driving
Food can be a major distraction while driving. But if you have to eat, pick the right foods. Foods that are easy to hold with one hand and aren’t messy can be the best choice. Drinks in containers that have straws or spouts can minimize distraction time and keep your hands on the wheel.
Plan Your Route Before You Drive
Set your GPS before driving. If you are planning on driving without a GPS, think about your route in advance and plan it out. Be mindful of your route as you go.
Hands-Free Doesn’t Mean You Aren’t Distracted
While many cars have hands-free phone controls or buttons on your wheel, it doesn’t mean you are safe from distraction. Your car’s screen, stereo system, or environmental control systems can all cause distractions. Be mindful of how you interact with these systems, and do your best to keep your focus on the road. If you have a passenger in your vehicle, consider asking them to make changes as needed.
Pulling Over is Safer Than Distracted Driving
It can be better to pull over than to drive distracted. If you need to pull over, do so safely. Put your car in park before proceeding with a text, call, or other important task that requires you to stop driving.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services does not provide medical, healthcare, or financial advice via articles. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide and should not be relied on for advice.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services has provided excellent home care on Staten Island since 1967. Our services help older and disabled individuals live safely and independently while giving their families the peace of mind they need. For more information, contact us or call (718)-979-6900.
