Winter Visitors

8 Pages 1922 Words

ision, a slowdown in response time, and loss of strength and flexibility. Confusion caused by increased use of medications and a reduction in ability to focus and concentrate add to the problem. Driving requires multi-tasking and rapid integration and response to information coming from all directions. The sight of a traffic light changing from green to yellow, the sound of cars behind and on either side, and the need to quickly move the foot from the accelerator to the brake while simultaneously turning the wheel to avoid a mother and stroller becomes a whirlwind of spinning images that the 78 year old man just cannot respond to quickly. If you then factor in other effects: add a cell phone or a cup of McDonald’s coffee in their hands the risks of a fatal accident increase dramatically.
What is the solution to this problem of elderly drivers? The solution is complex because the problem cannot be solved simply by banning these individuals from driving. Some years ago, there was an award-winning movie called “Driving Miss Daisy”, about a son dealing with his elderly mother who was no longer a safe driver. She tried public transportation, but it was not a satisfactory alternative in her small town. After that, her son hired a chauffeur to solve the problem. But hiring a chauffeur it is not an option for most elderly people.
How can society address this epidemic of traffic injuries and deaths as our population continues to age? The solution mus...