Cars for Seniors
Senior citizens like youngsters have every right to own a car and exhibit their driving skills. This makes them more independent and instills a lot of confidence. According to various surveys, there are almost 20 million senior citizen drivers in U.S and the number is believed to double in the years to come. This in turn proves the liberated and high spirited nature of the elderly drivers. However, as ageing progresses it brings with it various physical limitations that may make driving quite risky and uncomfortable. Markets are flooded with cars of various models and specifications. This huge assortment of cars provides ample scope for the senior citizens to select a car based on their health limitations.
There are various cars that are completely safe and are designed to accommodate the specific driving requisites for elderly people. The Toyota Rav4 is a favorite among senior citizens. This crossover model has a lower body that makes it reachable. The audio and climate controls are easy to understand and it has a thick steering wheel that aids easy gripping. The Buick Lucerne and the Cadillac DTS with user-friendly and latest features are also preferred by the senior citizens.
The Lexus LS 460 is stuffed with high-end features that provide hassle-free and smooth driving experience. The cutting-edge guidance system with a backup camera provides the required assistance to the senior drivers. The heated and totally adjustable seats are an added bonus. Its remote ignition system and car warming system are highly beneficial.
The extremely spacious Toyota Prius is another favored car. The voice-automated navigation system, alterable steering wheel and Bluetooth technology makes it a perfect choice for the senior citizens. The Toyota Sienna is also embedded with remote backup camera and spacious and adjustable seating arrangement that makes it suitable for the older generation.
Although elderly people are more cautious while driving and sincerely abide by the traffic rules, there is a natural and gradual deterioration of their driving skills. Therefore elderly drivers need to select appropriate cars with special features for comfortable and risk-free driving. As ageing advances, the reflex system of the body tends to weaken and results in delayed reactions. This health issue makes the senior drivers more vulnerable to accidents. The first and foremost factor that they need to consider is the safety aspect of a car. Apart from the regular safety features like ABS, anti-skid system, traction control and multiple airbags, the car should possess special safety features like rear view camera, all-wheel drive and enhanced warning alert systems.
Back pain is one of the most common problems faced during old age. Cars with proper and modifiable seats allow the elder drivers to adjust accordingly and enable relaxed driving. Poor visibility is also commonly associated with old age. Cars with good front view, large windows and mirrors larger than the normal sizes are perfect for them. The car should also have a display panel on the dashboard with perfect clarity so as to be viewable for senior drivers. Large doors also benefit old people as they can conveniently slip into the driver’s seat. Senior citizens are more comfortable with simplified control panels rather than the modern and complicated ones. Cars with extra added features like tilt and telescopic steering wheel, adequate back support and heated seats provide immense comfort.