Independent living is a top goal for many seniors, and driving is an essential aspect of that objective. Yet, the risk of being involved in a crash increases for drivers 65 and older. Thankfully, taking a few precautionary measures can enhance your safety and control behind the wheel. To protect yourself and others, follow these helpful tips.

Do:

Get enough rest.

Not getting enough sleep has a substantial impact on your brain's ability to focus, which poses a threat when you're behind the wheel. In fact, sleep deprivation is attributed to around 72,000 vehicle accidents every year. For that reason, try to get between seven and nine hours of sleep each night.

Exercise regularly.

While it may not seem like it, driving is a very physical activity. You need to be able to easily look over your shoulder to check blind spots and effectively handle the steering wheel. Staying physically active helps keep muscles loose and flexible, so opt for around 150 minutes of activity per week.

Regular exercise also helps improve sleep, which can counteract some of the nighttime issues many seniors experience, such as insomnia.

Don't:

Skip routine vision and hearing tests.

Seeing and hearing are your most valuable senses behind the wheel. If either is impaired, it can prevent you from safely maneuvering the roadway. Annual vision exams are vital to detecting any changes in your eyesight so you can maintain the correct eyeglass or contact prescription. On the other hand, hearing tests should take place every three years, unless you notice changes.

Drive on medications that cause drowsiness.

Drowsiness is a common side effect of many medications. Like poor sleep, this can affect your driving ability. For that reason, it's best to wait until all grogginess has worn off after taking over-the-counter or prescription medication to start driving. When taking new medicine, also check with your doctor about any potential interactions with your other drug list.

Cathedral Towers makes it easy to maintain your independence with their safe, affordable, and comfortable senior residences. Individuals and couples aged 62 and up are welcome at the Atlanta, GA, independent living complex. Boasting spacious, one-bedroom units and a wide range of security measures, this retirement community is conveniently located near entertainment, dining, and shopping options. Learn more about their amenities online, and book a personal tour of the independent living facilities by calling (404) 231-3020 today.