Older adults are likely to hang onto their keys as long as possible to maintain their social life and sense of independence. That’s understandable.
Nonetheless, recent research shows that many older adults in the U.S. are outliving their ability to drive safely by an average of 7 to 10 years! That’s scary.
What Kinds of Exercise Help for Better Driving?
Stretching
Exercises that increase range of motion are important for anyone who drives. Better drivers are able to easily turn the head from side to side. Reaching and rotating the steering wheel requires adequate shoulder function.
Speed
Exercises with bursts of speed may help build reaction times which are vital to better driving. If you are exercising at home, you can add 30 seconds intervals of fast punches, jumps, or running into your exercise routine.
Cognitive Skills
All exercises are helpful in maintaining good cognitive skills but exercise classes that incorporate cognitive training WITH movement actually build brain cells and improve cognitive skills. If you exercise at home, practice math skills while you’re exercise! As an example, start with 100 in your mind and do an exercise while adding 3 and subtracting 7 or any other combination of numbers.
Try your skills following along with Kathryn and Monica!
Looking for an exercise class in your area?
Ask if stretching, speed, and cognitive skills are included so YOU can keep your driving skills sharp!
Share your thoughts in the comment box below…
Do you exercise as much as YOU should?
When you exercise, do you incorporate stretching, speed, and cognitive skills?
Are you concerned about yourself or a loved one driving?
Note: This article was originally posted June 2019, and was updated July 17, 2020.
I truly appreciate this article. I never related my driving skills to exercise before now. I certainly know that range of motion is essential, but did not think about incorporating speed and cognition into my routine; this really makes sense. Thank you!
I really like this article! I exercise daily but what I do has drastically changed and I no longer incorporate bursts of speed. Thank you for the reminder and inspiration!!