Staying Mobile, Staying Safe: Car Care Tips for Seniors and Their Adult Children

Your car keys are more than a convenience. For many older adults, they mean freedom, independence, and a direct line to the people and places that matter most.

Transportation is a cornerstone of independence as you age, and more older Americans are behind the wheel than ever before. In 2022, there were almost 52 million licensed drivers ages 65 and older in the United States, a 77 percent increase since 2004, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which draws on Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) data. Aging populations in Canada, the U.K. and Australia are also adding more older drivers to the road.

The American Automobile Association (AAA) emphasizes the importance of staying up-to-date on car maintenance for mature drivers, promoting safe driving habits alongside regular vision screening."

Those numbers will keep growing in the coming decades. Driving remains one of the most important ways to stay connected to life, visit loved ones, run errands, and take part in the activities you enjoy.

Safety has to keep pace. The CDC reports that each day, 25 older adults are killed and more than 740 are injured in traffic crashes. The American Automobile Association (AAA) encourages mature drivers to stay current on vehicle maintenance, practice safe driving habits, and get regular vision screenings. The CDC recommends an eye exam at least once a year.

Your vehicle's age matters too. Research from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) found that drivers 70 and older were significantly more likely than middle-aged drivers to be driving vehicles at least 16 years old. Those vehicles were also less likely to have proven safety features such as electronic stability control and side airbags.

Across the country, cars are staying on the road longer. S&P Global Mobility’s most recent analysis puts the average age of cars and light trucks in the U.S. at a record 12.8 years, with passenger cars averaging 14.5 years. As your vehicle ages, regular maintenance becomes even more critical to keep it safe and reliable.

Insurance

Almost every state requires drivers to carry a minimum amount of car insurance in the United States and finding affordable car insurance can sometimes be a challenge. The specific types and amounts of coverage needed vary by state but generally include liability insurance for bodily injury and property damage. Some states may also require additional coverage like uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) protection, which kicks in if you're hit by a driver with no insurance or not enough insurance to cover your damages. Comprehensive coverage for newer vehicles may be wise, and if you have a carload, required. It's important to check with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to understand your state's specific car insurance requirements.

Similar to the U.S., all Canadian provinces require car insurance by law. The specific coverage amounts vary by province, in the U.K., all drivers must have at least third-party liability insurance (TPL) to operate a vehicle legally. TPL covers any injuries or damage you cause to others and their property in an accident. It's important to note that TPL doesn't cover damage to your own car.

U.K. drivers can protect their investment with comprehensive car insurance that can help fund fixes in the event of a collision. You could consider GAP insurance for your car as extra financial protection: this covers the loss in value should your vehicle be written off. 

Ensuring that seniors maintain proper car care promotes safety and independence. The following tips offer a helpful starting point for keeping seniors mobile and ensuring their vehicles are up-to-date and ready for the road.

Why Car Care Matters

Taking care of your or your senior loved one's car isn't just about keeping it looking shiny. Regular maintenance offers a range of benefits that directly impact the entire family, especially the driver, and your vehicle's overall health. Here's why car care matters:

• Safety: Regular maintenance reduces the risk of unexpected breakdowns and keeps the car in top condition for safe driving.
• Reliability: Proper care helps the car run smoothly and avoid costly repairs down the road.
• Resale Value: A well-maintained car holds better value for future resale.

A well-maintained car retains its value better for future resale. If you or a family member is a DIY type of person, you need the right supplies. There are many fine businesses, such as My Garage Supplies, that offer high-quality products, including tools and accessories, to help you keep your vehicle running smoothly and make maintenance easier.  

Getting Professional Help

The foundation of good car care lies in preventive maintenance. Here's how to get professional help to keep your vehicle in top shape:

• Scheduled Maintenance: Refer to your car's owner's manual for the recommended service schedule. This typically includes an annual service with a qualified mechanic checking all essential components.
• MOT Checks: If you live in the U.K., don't forget the legally required MOT check, which ensures a vehicle is roadworthy and an annual review of all essential components conducted by a qualified mechanic.

The United States has no mandatory national vehicle inspections like the UK MOT test. However, some states may require emissions testing for vehicles over a certain age. Check with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for specific requirements in your area.

Simple DIY Maintenance

The U.K. Automobile Association emphasizes the importance of vehicle maintenance for older drivers.

Routine checks and maintenance, such as ensuring battery health and brake efficiency, are vital to avoid unexpected issues and enhance driving safety. These practices help maintain the vehicle's reliability and support the driver's confidence on the road. Regular maintenance not only keeps the vehicle in top condition but also addresses the unique needs of older drivers, ensuring they remain safe and independent."

Here are some easy tasks you can do yourself between professional services:

• Oil Levels: Check your oil regularly using the dipstick. Ensure the oil level falls between the minimum and maximum markings.
• Fluids: Monitor the windshield washer fluid, coolant, and oil levels. Use the appropriate fluids recommended in your owner's manual to top them up as needed.
• Tire Care: Proper tire inflation is crucial for fuel efficiency and safety. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate it to the recommended levels on a sticker inside your driver's door jamb. Look for any signs of wear and tear on your tires, such as cracks, bulges, or low tread depth. Replace worn tires promptly. A simple trick to check tread depth is to insert a 20p coin to check tread depth. If the coin's outer rim is visible, your tires need replacing. In the U.S. and Canada, insert a penny (the kind with President Lincoln or Quenn ELiaeth (soon to be changed to King Charles facing you) head-down into the tread groove of your tire. If the top of the head is obscured by the tread, your tread depth is likely above the minimum safe limit (usually around 2/32 inches). If you can see all of the head, it's time to replace your tires.
• Fuel Efficiency: Avoid letting the fuel level drop below a quarter tank. This can help prevent problems like engine sputtering and potential damage to the fuel pump.

• Battery Care: On older vehicles, a weak battery is one of the most common causes of breakdowns. If the engine cranks slowly, the headlights dim during startup, or you see corrosion on the terminals, it’s time to test the battery and clean the posts. When replacement is needed, check your owner’s manual for the correct battery specifications and use this guide to remove and install car batteries, including proper tools and fit checks. After installation, have a family member double-check that the battery is securely mounted and get the charging system tested to be sure everything is working properly.

Keeping Your Car Looking Great

A clean car lasts longer, holds its value better and simply feels nicer to drive. The good news? You don’t need to spend an afternoon bent over a bucket to get there.

• Washing and Waxing: Regular washing removes dirt, road salt, bird droppings and tree sap. Left alone, they can eat into your paint over time. Use a soap made for cars, not dish soap, which strips away wax. Be gentle to avoid scratching the finish.

  Waxing every few months adds a protective layer and keeps your car shiny. Spray-on waxes make the job much easier than traditional paste.

• Interior Care: Vacuum regularly to clear dust and crumbs from carpets and seats. Wipe down the dashboard, door panels and steering wheel with a slightly damp microfiber cloth. Keep a small trash bag in the car so clutter doesn’t build up.

Making Car Care Easier as You Age

Car care involves bending, reaching and stretching. If stiff joints, balance or stamina make that harder than it used to be, a few smart changes help.

• Choose the right tools. A long-handled wash brush or extendable mop lets you reach the roof and lower panels without stretching or crouching. Lightweight microfiber mitts and cloths are easier on your hands than heavy sponges.
• Sit down for low spots. A small rolling stool or garden seat lets you clean wheels, bumpers and rocker panels without kneeling.
• Skip the ladder. Don’t climb on step stools to reach the roof of an SUV or truck. Wet surfaces make falls more likely. Use an extension pole instead, or leave the roof to a car wash.
• Pick the right time. Wash in the shade during the cooler part of the day. Your car’s surface won’t dry and spot as fast, and you’ll avoid overheating. Take breaks and drink water.
• Try a waterless or rinseless wash. These spray-and-wipe products clean light dirt without a hose or bucket. They’re ideal for a quick touch-up in the garage.
• Go cordless inside. A lightweight cordless handheld vacuum is far easier to maneuver in tight spaces than a shop vac with a hose and cord. Removable rubber floor mats can be pulled out and rinsed off rather than scrubbed in place.
• Let the car wash do the heavy lifting. Touchless automatic car washes are gentle on paint, and many offer monthly memberships that cost less than a few individual washes. Some full-service locations clean the interior too.
• Bring the detailer to you. Mobile detailing services come to your driveway, so you don’t have to drive anywhere or wait around.
• Make it a shared project. A grandchild looking to earn some extra money or a neighbor’s teen may be happy to help with a weekend wash.

If you have back, shoulder or balance concerns, talk with your doctor about which activities are safe for you. Hiring help isn’t giving up independence. It’s a smart way to protect your health and still enjoy a car that looks great.

Additional Tips

• Consult Your Owner's Manual: This is your car's instruction guide. Refer to it for specific maintenance recommendations and information on how to perform basic checks.
• Park Smart: Whenever possible, park your car in a shaded area or a garage to protect the interior from sun damage and extreme temperatures.
• Be Aware of Warning Signs: Pay attention to any unusual noises, vibrations, or warning lights on your dashboard. These might indicate a potential issue that needs addressing.

Technology has also become vital for today’s senior drivers.

AAA's RoadWise Driver program highlights the importance of senior drivers staying updated on the latest vehicle technologies and driving techniques to adjust for age-related changes like slower reflexes and weaker vision. By taking comprehensive driving improvement courses, senior drivers can extend their safe driving careers and maintain their independence."

These tips will keep anyone's car safe, reliable, and looking its best for many years to come. Always monitor a senior's ability to drive safely. Taking the keys away from an older parent or family member is difficult and life-changing for the individual. Be sure to see their driving skills firsthand before taking away the keys. 

Maintaining Quality of LIfe

When a loved one loses their independence, finding the proper extended care is important to maintain the best quality of life. 

Finding quality caregivers, senior communities, or long-term care facilities for older family members is now easier than ever with the LTC News Caregiver Directory. This comprehensive resource provides an extensive listing of over 80,000 providers nationwide. You can find the quality long-term care services your loved ones deserve in just a few clicks. 

For care providers, claiming your free listing on the LTC News Directory Business Portal is simple. You can upgrade your listing for a nominal fee to enhance your visibility. 

For those with an LTC policy, LTC News can help process claims from any Long-Term Care Insurance policy. LTC News, in partnership with Amada Senior Care, a nationally recognized in-home healthcare agency, ensures that you and your loved ones receive the quality care you deserve. This service comes at no cost or obligation - Filing a Long-Term Care Insurance Claim.