Enhancing Road Safety for Senior Drivers Through Innovative Technology
Technology is crucial in enhancing the safety of older family members behind the wheel, with advanced features like collision warning systems and GPS navigation aiding in safer driving experiences. These innovations provide seniors with the tools they need to navigate roads more confidently and reduce the risk of accidents.
Technology offers numerous benefits to older adults, from virtually connecting with loved ones and accessing various entertainment options to playing games that help keep the mind sharp. Tech devices can also assist seniors in staying fit by tracking their vital signs and activity levels. But are you aware that certain innovations can enhance the safety of your older loved ones while they are driving?
According to recent data from the Centers for Disease Control, about 540 senior drivers are injured in car crashes every day. Although someone may have years or even decades of driving experience, physical and cognitive declines mean they may have to consider getting someone else to drive them where they need to go.
However, most older adults don't want to give up their independence. Thankfully, there are ways that they can stay safe while on the road, and that's by using apps and the latest car technology. Here's what every senior should know to avoid harm's way while driving and the best tech to use while you're on the road.
While technology can help your older family members, you may find it can also benefit you. Be sure to share these ideas with family members and keep everyone safer.
Use Apps to Map Your Route
If you're driving to an unfamiliar part of town, make it a priority to review your route and know what traffic conditions will be like while you're on the road. Use a navigation and traffic monitoring app before you leave, and use Google to find the nearest and safest spot to park your vehicle.
You should also check if the parking area is safe for elderly users. Commercial spaces such as grocery stores, shops, restaurants, and the like should have accessible parking to protect elderly customers and make parking safer.
Some apps that are extremely useful when going to a new location include Waze, Apple Maps, Google Maps, and Maps.Me. Download these to your smart phone, and always have mobile data so you can use these apps whenever you need them. These apps can make driving safer, less confusing, and more time-efficient for seniors.
Avoid Distractions
Texting, calling, or using your vehicle's touch screen while driving can lead to accidents, so if you're on the go, focus and avoid doing anything else that takes up your attention. If you need to look something up on your phone, pull over to the side of the road before doing so.
Don't use hands-free features or virtual personal assistants like Google Assistant, Siri, or Alexa while driving since data shows it's just as dangerous as texting. Always stop if you need to use a device, and pull off the road as far as possible to avoid getting accidentally hit by another vehicle.
Have a GPS Tracker Installed in Your Vehicle
If you always forget where you parked your car, or if you always seem to get lost even if you drive the same routes over and over again, it may be time to have a GPS tracker installed in your vehicle. This will help your loved ones locate you and your vehicle if ever you're in a pinch, and it also helps you find your car if it gets towed or stolen.
The tracking device can also be beneficial in case of an emergency since you'll be able to tell emergency personnel your exact location. Some GPS trackers even monitor driving habits, so you'll know if you have a tendency to brake suddenly or if you always hold the gas pedal all the way down.
Add Parking Sensors with a Night Vision Camera to Your Car
If you have trouble backing up or parking in reverse, consider adding parking sensors to your car. The sensors detect obstacles or objects that are in front or behind your car so you can avoid bumping or running into them while driving. Parking sensors emit beeping sounds to guide you as you back up, but if you can get sensors with a night vision camera, that's even better since you'll have a visual cue while maneuvering your vehicle.
Some of the latest tech innovations in the market can help older adults stay safe while driving. Be sure to make sure older family members still should be on the road to start with; however, aging doesn't automatically mean driving skills are diminished. However, chronic illnesses, mobility difficulties, dementia, and frailty will also impact driving skills. Other transportation options should be considered when a loved one is no longer behind the wheel.
About the Author
Sally Phillips is a freelance writer with many years’ experience across many different areas. She enjoys reading, hiking, spending time with her family, and traveling as much as possible.
Sally Phillips
Contributor since November 4th, 2017
Editor's Note
One of the most significant concerns associated with aging is the loss of independence. This fear is not unfounded, as aging can bring about chronic illnesses, accidents, mobility issues, dementia, and frailty, all of which may necessitate long-term care. Such conditions impact your health and well-being and your ability to live independently. As these challenges become more prevalent with age, it's crucial to consider them in retirement planning.
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