Studies have shown the most responsible drivers on the road are people over the age of 65. This group is the most likely to obey speed limits while driving defensively. They also are the least likely population to drive in bad weather or unfamiliar places. However, this population is also at the most risk to cause accidents with deteriorating vision and slower reflexes.
Although this is not new information, there are new studies finding that people over 65 have more difficulty sleeping which correlates to higher safety concerns on the road.
One new study from Washington University found a correlation between sleep apnea and drowsy driving in older adults. More than 100,000 driving trips were explored in accidents where unsafe driving practices were found in connection with sleep interruptions.
“The study helps untangle the ways aging-associated risk factors such as poor sleep and Alzheimer’s disease put older adults in danger while driving, and could aid efforts to find ways to maximize years of safe driving,” said the researchers of the study.
Today’s blog shares the risks, signs, and best practices to help this population drive safely.
Risks of Falling Asleep Behind the Wheel
- sleep deprived or fatigued
- working more than 60 hours per week
- experiencing jet lag or reduced sleep due to travel
- driving alone or on long, dark, rural roads
- taking sedating medications such as antihistamines
- shift work that involves overnight driving
Signs of Drowsy Driving
- yawning, rubbing your eyes or blinking frequently
- difficulty remembering the past few miles driven
- missing your exit
- hitting a rumble strip frequently on the side of the road
- feeling restless and irritable
Best Practices Before Traveling
- Get enough sleep — most adults need 7 to 9 hours and most teens need 8.5-9.5 hours to maintain proper alertness during the day.
- Schedule proper breaks about every 100 miles or 2 hours during long trips.
- Arrange for a travel companion.
- Avoid alcohol and sedating medications — check your labels or ask your doctor.
- Don’t stare straight ahead. Move your eyes around and focus on things near and far.
To discover if there are underlying causes to your lack of sleep, contact the Alaska Sleep Education Center for a free 10-minute phone consultation. If you live in the state of Alaska, our board-certified sleep specialists can even make a Home Sleep Test work for you by calling us @ 907-357-6700.
