Vision: a driving hazard

Road conditions, weather and other vehicles can make operating a vehicle a challenging experience for all drivers; however, older Americans face several other obstacles that can make driving dangerous.

Several eye diseases can make a senior citizen's vision blurred or choppy. Macular degeneration, glaucoma and cataracts can all impair vision making it difficult to operate a moving vehicle, a State Farm Insurance Web site located at www.statefarm.com/about/part_spos/topics/senior.asp said.

According to the Web site, it is important for Americans 50 years of age and older to seek out an optometrist for regular eye exams. This will allow for early detection and treatment, which will keep senior citizens in the driver's seat for many years, the statement said.

Poor vision can also cause senior citizens to have difficulty seeing clearly at night. The glare from oncoming traffic can cause elderly drivers to experience blind spots when they are driving; thus making driving dangerous, the Web site said.

Hearing loss is another risk factor for elderly drivers, the statement said.

"Hearing also plays a role in driving. Hearing loss, particularly involving high frequency perception, is common. That makes it difficult to hear traffic sounds such as horns and sirens," the material said.

According to the Web site, elderly drivers can take steps to ensure their driving experiences are safe.

* Drivers should make sure that eye glasses, windshields, mirrors and lights are clean before starting out.

* Check side view mirrors often and keep lane changes to a minimum.

* Travel at the designated speed at all times.

* Leave an adequate amount of space from the car in front.

* Keep radios turned low or off to ensure that horns and sirens can be heard.

* At night, look at the lower left side instead of directly at the oncoming traffic.

State Farm Insurance offers a five-percent discount on some insurance for elderly drivers if a defensive driving course has been taken, Tia Lindell, a State Farm representative said.

According to the State Farm Web site, people of any age should be able to drive safely.

"Responsible driving has no age limits," the Web site said.