Drugs and the Older Driver

No matter what your age, being able to drive is a sign of independence. Yet with the independence comes the responsibility to drive safely. As the baby boomers get older, seniors are now the fastest growing segment of the driving population. And based on the number of miles driven, older drivers have more accidents than any other age group.

One of the greatest challenges facing older drivers is understanding the effects of their medication(s) on their ability to drive safely. Don't let yourself be impaired when you drive. Find out more before you get behind the wheel. It could save your life. 

How Do Medications Affect Driving?
The average senior over 65 takes nine medications a day, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal. These drugs and supplements can cause a driver to respond slower, or not see a sign, other car, or pedestrian.

Different drugs have difference effects on driving ability. Some people, such as epileptics, may not be able to drive at all without medication. Drugs that are prescribed to treat anxiety and insomnia (benzodiazepines), can have serious side effects including drowsiness, impaired motor function, and confusion. Pain killers containing codeine or propoxyphene can reduce the ability to make decisions and process information rapidly. Even over-the-counter drugs, such as antihistimines and cold remedies can impair a driver.

Drug Interactions
When taking more than one drug at a time, it can produce unexpected side effects and adverse interactions. This can be very dangerous. Protect yourself by informing your doctor(s) of all drugs you are taking. Be sure to include prescription and over-the-counter medications.

Taking alchohol with medication is extremely dangerous in any situation, but especially behind the wheel. As you get older, your tolerance for alcohol decreases. The only safe practice is to avoid alcohol entirely. Impaired driving due to medications, alchohol, or a combination is not only dangerous, it's also a criminal offense.

Tips for Safe Driving
Just because you take medication, it doesn't mean you'll be a passenger for the rest of your life. There are things you can do to drive safely and still take your meds. Here are some tips:

• Take all medications according to the instructions.
• Ask your doctor or pharmacist about the effects of prescription drugs on your ability to drive.
• If you have more than one doctor, make sure all of them know about everything you are taking. Find out about any possible adverse drug interactions.
• Never mix medications, share them with someone else, or take them with alcohol.
• If the label says "Do not use while operating heavy machinery," don't drive.
• Whenever you're in doubt about the effects of a drug, don't drive. It's better to be safe than sorry.
• Consider taking a driver improvement course to learn how to compensate for the changes aging brings, such as hearing, vision, flexibility, and slower reaction time.