Common Distracted Driving Behaviors Among Older Adults

April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month. The National Safety Council wants all drivers to remain safe and focused while behind the wheel. According to a study by Northwestern University, advancing age significantly affects driving performance when the driver attempts to complete a secondary task. Older adults should take time to reflect on their driving habits and modify certain behaviors that cause distractions.

Below are four common distracted driving behaviors among older adults and steps you can take to minimize them.

Interacting with Passengers

Passengers can cause cognitive distractions for older adults. Conversation demands mental focus and attention, which can take away from the task of driving. Younger passengers, such as children and babies, can cause an older adult to take their eyes off the road. Avoid intense topics with your spouse or other passengers while driving. Consider taking another adult along to help with the needs of young kids or babies. Be a more conscientious passenger by keeping conversation to a minimum and looking out for hazards.

Using In-Vehicle Technology

The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety shares that older adults are more likely to be distracted while driving and using in-vehicle technology. On average, older adults take their eyes off the road eight seconds longer than younger drivers, while using in-vehicle technology. Learn how to use in-vehicle technology while your vehicle is parked in your driveway, instead of on the road. If it continues to be confusing, refuse to use it while driving.

Cell Phone Use

Research shows that the mere presence of our phones, even if silenced or turned off, can reduce our cognitive capacity. Yet, many older adults continue to use their cell phones while driving. Using a cell phone while driving, even when in hands-free mode, pulls the driver’s attention from the task of driving. Minimize distracted driving caused by a cell phone by tucking it away in your purse or glove compartment. Silence your phone so you won’t be tempted to answer a call or read a text message. If you use your phone for directions, start navigation before you begin driving and silence all other alerts and messages.

Listening to Music, Podcasts, or Audiobooks

Although listening to music, a podcast, or an audiobook can make a road trip less monotonous, it also poses other distractions. Listening divides the driver’s attention between what’s happening on the road and what’s playing in the car. Changing what’s playing while driving is another distraction and can decrease reaction time. Choose to drive in silence, especially when driving shorter distances. If you insist on listening to something, lower the volume to help you pay attention to what’s happening around you on the road.

If driving has become a burden, perhaps it’s time to consider elderly home care provided Visiting AngelsPunta Gorda. Our professional caregivers can escort you to your appointments or assist you with errands, so that you can remain independent and continue to travel to your preferred places. We provide our clients with elderly home care they can trust, while allowing them to keep their preferred schedule and remain in their familiar surroundings. To learn more about our elderly home care services, please contact us by calling 941-347-8288 Charlotte County or 239-226-1620 Lee County.