Driving allows people to stay independent and socially connected. Staying safe is important for all drivers, but as we age the challenges of staying safe might be getting too much for us.

In this episode of The Better Ageing Podcast we're discussing driving and old age.  In particular we debunk some myths around older drivers (hint: older drivers aren't unsafe!) and discuss some of the lesser known physical changes that can affect driving, how to prepare for a life beyond driving and how to have a discussion with a parent or loved one when it might be time to hang up the driving gloves.

As always, we hope this episode helps you better understand your own health and wellbeing and how you can care for those you love too. If you have any questions at all, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us: https://newtricksco.com.au/contact/

Show notes/ topics covered:

0:07 - Welcome 
1:04 - Introduction to driving into old age 
1:26 - Myth 1: older drivers aren't safe 
2:44 - Myth 2: older drivers have to be tested regularly 
4:40 - Physical changes that might affect driving 
5:20 - Older people and car crashes 
6:36 - Physical changes that reduce safety 
10:04 - How can medication affect driving 
12:01 - Planning for a life without driving 
13:02 - Dementia and driving 
13:35 - Having a conversation with a parent about their driving 
16:30 - Staying fit for driving 
17:06 - Final thoughts 

About the experts: 

Jason Lee and Dr Jane Fyfield have over 45 years of experience working with elderly Australians. Jason Lee runs his own physiotherapy practice, with a focus on strength and conditioning programs for over 60 year olds. Dr Jane Fyfield works as a consultant to aged care services, is a former Medical Director, and has worked in the public, private and government sectors as a clinician and a non-clinical consultant.