Additionally, it becomes more difficult for eyes to adjust and focus on different objects. This problem is intensified at night, particularly when trying to recover from the glare of headlights. Arthritis or physical pain can also limit driving abilities such as being able to completely turn the head to look for traffic or operate a car with manual transmission. Reaction time also decreases with age. Though it may not be obvious in other activities, a delay in response time can be quite noticeable during unexpected driving situations.
Illnesses can also affect driving abilities as people age.
These include cardiac conditions, dementia, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and other problems. To help address these problems, Logsdon recommends that seniors speak with their physician and follow his or her advice regarding possible driving limitations. Logsdon notes that the key to improving driving skills is to stay focused on the task at hand and keep distractions to a minimum. Seniors just need to be extra aware and alert when on the road. Logsdon notes that friends or relatives, especially adult children of older parents, may be the ones to approach a senior with concerns about driving.