It is a known scientific fact that the human anatomy slows down with age, thereby affecting things such as cognitive ability and motor skills.

This experience manifests itself in the simplest of activities, such as climbing stairs, bending over or even walking.

To a greater extent, this slowing down process is very apparent when it comes to more complex activities such as driving.

That being said, age should never be the sole explanation to removing an individual’s driving privileges. In fact, there are individuals who are well into their eighties and nineties who are fit enough to still drive safely.

However, this is largely down to how senior citizens and their loved ones have taken care of their physical and mental well-being.

Given that medical conditions play a big role in maintaining both a healthy mind and body, here are some clinical issues to look out for to help senior citizens stay fit so that they can continue to enjoy their driving privileges.

Cataracts

A healthy eyesight is crucial when it comes to driving oneself, let alone others. However, cataracts cause severe and gradual vision impairment. What makes it worse is that it’s not easy to spot by yourself. Even so, a good way to know if one is having cataracts is to constantly test and check one’s vision regularly.

If you or your loved one is unable to see beyond 25 metres (even with the aid of spectacles) then chances are, they might be developing the condition, and should stay off the wheel. The uplifting news is that cataract treatments are more accessible these days, so it’s best to consult a physician on the necessary course of action.

Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration, also known as AMD or ARMD, causes contortion in one’s focal field of vision, thereby causing objects to appear less sharp and defined.

This can make spotting street signs, pedestrians and other objects quite difficult. It is a common medical issue for individuals beyond 60 years of age.

Dementia

Dementia hinders judgment, memory and dynamic abilities, all of which are crucial when it comes to an activity such as driving.

While those diagnosed with early dementia might still be able to drive safely under supervision, it is still a risk.

Of course, this risk increases as the condition worsens, thereby making driving unsafe and hazardous for a person suffering from dementia.

Epilepsy

This is a neurological issue that causes seizures. It has numerous causes, including hereditary issues, cerebrum injury and stroke.

As seizures escalate to an impermanent loss of mindfulness or awareness, driving with uncontrolled epilepsy is a significant danger not just to drivers but to other road users too.

Diabetes

Diabetics, particularly those being treated with insulin, should be made aware about hypoglycaemia.

Low glucose levels can lead to sudden loss of energy or swooning, which makes it very dangerous when it comes to being behind the wheel.

Diabetics may also experience the ill effects of diabetic retinopathy, which also hinders visual perception. In such a case, they must get their eyes checked routinely to make sure there is no decay in their vision.

Sluggishness

While this may not be a medical condition in itself, it is still a symptom of underlying health issues, and one of the chief causes of road accidents in general.

Sluggishness or lethargy, leads to slower reflexes, diminished watchfulness and poor decision-making skills, all of which could lead to a catastrophe on the road. If one is plagued by bouts of lethargy, then it is best not to drive.

Other conditions that could influence one’s driving ability are heart trouble, vertigo, schizophrenia, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease and other musculoskeletal issues.

As a whole, your physical and mental wellbeing plays a huge role in your capability to drive safely. To avoid being blindsided by any of these medical issues, do make it a point to go for regular health checks.

Like any other skill, driving is built on constant practice. Hence, do not be shy to seek a driver’s refresher course from time to time as well.

As a child or caregiver to a senior citizen, do take the necessary precautions to keep an eye on your golden oldies, especially when they’re on the road.

This article first appeared in The New Savvy.

The New Savvy is Asia’s leading financial, investments and career platform for women. Our bold vision is to empower 100 million women to achieve financial happiness. We deliver high-quality content through conferences, e-learning platforms, personal finance apps and e-commerce stores.