Staying fit to drive

Growing older is inevitable, but maintaining a good level of health and fitness, and seeking advice and support from medical professionals, means most of us can keep driving safely well into our senior years.

Having regular medical, vision and hearing check-ups, and monitoring any medicines you are taking is critical to good health.

If you’re 75 or older be sure to receive your annual health assessment.

Exercise is beneficial to people of all ages – keeping strong and flexible can help to keep you driving safely.

As a driver you need to be able to turn your head, look around and fully use the car’s controls. A regular exercise program can help you do that. There are lots of options available through fitness centres, community groups, and online apps. Your doctor, physiotherapist or osteopath can also provide advice on what type of exercise will suit you best.

Staying cognitively ‘fit’ is also essential to drive safely

There are many ways you can keep your brain active and agile:

• Puzzles such as crosswords, Sudoku or chess.

• Brain training apps.

• Take up a hobby or new interest.

• Include variety in your driving (e.g. taking different routes to get to the shops). 

Here is a checklist for drivers to work through to ensure they remain safe to drive:

• Schedule regular health checks with my doctor to ensure I have no medical conditions, injuries or disabilities that may affect my driving.

• Schedule eyesight and hearing checks every two years to stay on top of any conditions that may impact my ability to drive safely.

• Confirm with my doctor or pharmacist that any medications I take don’t put me at risk while driving.

• Exercise regularly to maintain strength and flexibility.

• Ensure my car is set up correctly and consider getting expert help from an occupational therapist.

• Get familiar with the safety features available in my car, and make sure I know how to use them.