Caregivers and family members play a critical role in monitoring a senior loved one’s fitness for driving, says Khoo Teck Puat Hospital’s Dr Claudia Koh.
Age-related declines in vision, reaction time and cognitive function can make driving more challenging and riskier for seniors. As our population ages, the issue of elderly drivers on our roads becomes more pressing. As a geriatrician, I see the complexities and nuances of this issue firsthand.
Mr L’s daughter was hesitant to broach the subject, fearing it might upset him, but she felt it was essential to address these concerns. It was a delicate balance - respecting Mr L’s autonomy and acknowledging the legitimate safety issues related to his memory challenges.through macular degeneration, cataracts and glaucoma can make it difficult for seniors to see road signs, judge distances and drive at night.
Regular health check-ups can help detect health issues that might impair driving, while annual vision and hearing tests can ensure any impairments are addressed promptly.All holders of a qualified driving licence aged 65 years of above in Singapore must be certified fit to drive by a Singapore-registered medical practitioner for their license to remain valid. This certification must be renewed every three years.
Sudden behavioral changes, such as driving too slowly, stopping abruptly or ignoring traffic signals, are red flags. Getting lost on familiar routes or mixing up locations are also serious concerns. Coincidentally, Mr L’s Certificate of Entitlement was due for renewal. Recognising this as an opportune moment, Mr L made the difficult but wise decision to give up his car. With these supportive measures in place, he found that he could still enjoy his independence and stay connected with his community, while his family felt reassured about his safety.
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