No one wants to give up driving, even though it may be inevitable with age. So what can you do to stay behind the wheel longer? It might be as simple as weekly exercises and stretches!

AAA research shows that:

• Older adults who drive less frequently are more likely to report increased fatigue and poor physical functioning, leading them to turn in their licenses. 
• Those who give up the keys completely are almost two times more likely to suffer from depression—and nearly five times as likely to enter a long-term care facility, due to their feeling disconnected from the pleasures of their daily lives. 

Daily exercise and stretching not only improve physical functions, but these activities also help drivers to move more freely behind the wheel. The exercises should include balance training as well as aerobic and muscle strengthening. (Older adults should consult their doctor before beginning a new exercise regimen.)

“Some decline in physical fitness is inevitable as we age,” said Jake Nelson, AAA director of traffic safety advocacy and research. “But, research shows that exercise doesn’t have to be strenuous to produce positive results. Even a few minutes at a time can be sufficient. You can spread out the time you spend being physically active over the course of your day and week. Simple steps to keep active can keep you driving safely for longer.”

AAA recommends a series of exercises and stretches to improve neck, shoulder, trunk, back and overall body flexibility. As a leading advocate for senior driver safety, AAA offers many programs and resources to help older adults improve their driving performance. 

For more information on these resources, such as RoadWise online/classroom courses or other programs that help seniors better “fit” with their vehicles, visit www.SeniorDriving.AAA.com.