Driving Safely with Age

Vision Concerns Older Adults Shouldn't Ignore

January 28, 2025

As we age, maintaining our independence is essential; for many, driving is a vital part of that freedom. However, aging brings changes to our vision that can impact driving safety. Understanding and addressing these changes can help older adults stay safe on the road longer.

Common Vision Concerns Affecting Older Drivers

• Decreased Night Vision
  

  Aging eyes often struggle to see well in low-light conditions. They can make driving at night more challenging, mainly when dealing with glare from oncoming headlights or poorly lit streets.

• Reduced Peripheral Vision
  

  Peripheral vision tends to narrow with age, making it harder to detect movement or hazards from the sides, such as pedestrians or vehicles entering from cross streets.

• Glare Sensitivity
  

  As the eye's lens changes with age, it can become more sensitive to glare during the day and at night. This can make recovering from a dazzled encounter with bright lights more difficult.

• Cataracts
  

  Clouding of the eye's lens, or cataracts, is a common condition that can blur vision, reduce contrast sensitivity, and make colors appear less vibrant—all of which affect driving.

• Macular Degeneration
  

  This condition affects central vision, which is critical for reading road signs, recognizing traffic signals, and spotting hazards ahead.

Tips for Staying Safe on the Road

• Schedule Regular Eye Exams
  

  Comprehensive eye exams can detect changes in vision and eye health early. Experts recommend that adults over 60 have an eye exam at least once a year.

• Update Your Eyewear
  

  Ensure your prescription glasses or contact lenses are current. If you need special lenses for night driving, discuss this with your eye care provider.

• Adapt to Driving Conditions
  

  Avoid driving at night or during bad weather if your vision is compromised in these conditions.

• Limit Glare
  

  Wear polarized sunglasses during the day to reduce glare. Keep your windshield clean at night and avoid staring directly into oncoming headlights.

Your vision is central to driving safely and confidently. By addressing vision concerns promptly and making necessary adjustments, you can continue to enjoy the independence that comes with driving.

Every VSP® network doctor provides a comprehensive vision exam. With the largest independent doctor network in the country and low out-of-pocket costs, we're confident you'll find the plan that's best for you, and your eyes.

Source: https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/eye-health-for-life/senior-vision

Information received through VSP Vision Care channels is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, medical recommendations, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your eye doctor, physician, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.