Senior Citizens Behind the Wheel Essay - 600 Words

Many concerns have been expressed about the potential dangers elderly drivers present when operating a vehicle. Mental and physical capabilities begin to decline as a person ages. When their health deteriorates, the well being of other individuals on the road is at stake. Many elderly drivers should not drive due to their medical history and the fact that they might suffer from possible side effects from taking multiple prescription medicines. In addition, local organizations and neighbors can provide transportation for the elderly to keep them from endangering themselves and others. The threat senior citizens create when driving can be avoided if they are tested to ensure their competence as a driver. Driving is a privilege that†¦show more content†¦Arthritis is a common ailment among the older population. It places strain on joints making it difficult for senior citizens to walk or move; it may also cause posture to become inadequate, thereby impairing driving capabilities (PWI 1). Parkinsons disease can also interfere with driving. This disease causes muscle strength to diminish, and it produces a loss in coordination (PWI 1). Medication is used to control diseases and other common health problems, but prescription medication may have quot;side effects or drug interactions [that] can effect drivingquot; (PWI 1). Some senior citizens take several types of medicine, and they must take them for long periods of time. Benzodiazepines are an anti-anxiety agent that many elderly drivers take on a regular basis. In a Canadian study, researchers found that drivers from the ages of 67 to 84 who take long lasting benzodiazepines are at risk more those not taking the medications ( PWI 1-2). Many of them ignore the warning labels about operating heavy machinery (PWI 2). Research shows that quot;effects of [...] drugs are amplified among the elderlyquot; (PWI 2) because metabolisms slow with age. Doctors encourage patients not to drive when taking benzodiazepines. The dangers most elderly drivers create can be prevented. Older people may consider driving the quot;last connection to freedom and independencequot;Show MoreRelatedSenior Citizens In America Essay1285 Words   |  6 Pagespopulations, senior citizens make a 12 percent of the entire population. A senior citizen is commonly known as a person who is over the age of 65 and living on retirement, or known as social security benefits (Census Bureau). Ever since Franklin D. Roosevelt implied the act of Social Security in 1935, seniors are regularly provided a financial help, but seniors, along with financial help, seeks also accompany of someone who can look after them. Because of constantly growing needs of senior citizens, governmentRead MoreOld People Driving Draft Essay785 Words   |  4 Pagesthat I would like to address that a lot of people do not consider a hazard on the road is elderly civilians behind the wheel on the same roads as us. 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