Older drivers can put the brakes on aches
Exercises can alleviate stiffness behind the wheel. Credit: Handout
Minor aches and pains can cause major consequences for seniors when they are driving. Stiff joints mean older drivers sometimes have trouble turning their heads when backing up to see what's behind them. Other common problems caused by reduced flexibility are difficulty seeing blind spots while changing lanes or spotting traffic or pedestrians while making turns.
The Hartford Center for Mature Market Excellence and the MIT AgeLab came up with some exercises that increased older adults' comfort behind the wheel and made them safer drivers. The exercises, which improved strength, flexibility and range of motion, are simple and can be done at home. Download "Exercise for Mature Drivers" at bit.ly/maturedrivers.
