Can I See Well Enough To Drive?

By Norley Hall

In our recent articles we have discussed some of the problems that may make it difficult for seniors to continue driving. We have also examined some possible remedies that may prolong the driving time for older drivers. In another case of potential problems related to driving we will take a look at what may be the number one reason for seniors to have to give up driving. That obstacle would be poor vision.

Do you have any of the following symptoms of declining vision? Are you having problems reading highway or street signs or recognizing someone you know across the street? Do you have trouble seeing lane lines and other pavement markings, curbs, medians, other vehicles and pedestrians, especially at dawn, dusk and at night? Are you experiencing more discomfort at night from the glare of oncoming headlights?

While nothing can bring back lost eyesight, there are some aids for eye impairment that may help. First, make sure you always wear your glasses and that they are a current prescription. If you lose or break your glasses, don't rely on an old pair; replace them right away with your newest prescription. Avoid eye-wear with side pieces that may block your vision. Do not wear sunglasses or tinted lenses at night. This reduces the amount of light that reaches your eyes and makes driving much more hazardous. Don't darken or tint your car windows. Avoid driving at dawn, dusk and night. If you are extremely light-sensitive, check with your eye doctor to see if it can be corrected.

Keep your windshield, mirrors and headlights clean, and inspect them regularly. Turn brightness up on the instrument panel. Sit high enough in your seat so that you can see the road for at least 10 feet in front of your car. This will make a big difference in reducing the amount of glare you experience from opposing headlights at night.

And maybe the area of greatest concern, make sure if you are 60 or older that you see an eye doctor every year (or oftener if necessary) to check for cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and other conditions associated with aging.