Savvy Senior

YOU ASK THE SENIOR QUESTION WE FIND THE SAVVY ANSWER Dear Savvy Senior,

I watched you on the Today show last month demonstrating some different items that seniors can add to their cars to help their driving. My parents are both in their late 70’s and could use a little extra help. Can you please list the different items you showed and where I can get them?

Back Seat Son

Dear Back Seat,

I’m glad you asked! With nearly 14 million drivers age 65 and older in the United States today, more attention needs to be given to keeping older drivers safe. To help your parents, a smart move would be to first visit with a driver rehabilitation specialist who can assess their specific needs and make appropriate recommendations. To locate a specialist in your area, visit www.aota.org/olderdriver or call 888-232-1184.

Driving Helpers

While age doesn’t make a bad driver, it does typically bring about the physical changes (reduced mobility, strength, vision, and sensitivity to glare) that can make driving more difficult. Here are some simple items (all under $40) that can make operating an automobile easier and safer, and help keep older drivers driving longer.

Entry and Exit: Getting into and out of a car can be very challenging for seniors who are less mobile. Some items that can help include:

• Swivel Seat Cushion: This padded seat with a swivel base will help you into the car more easily. A plastic trash bag or silk scarf spread out on the seat can also help you scoot into position easier.

• Handybar and Car Caddie: These are portable handles that can help you get out of the car safely and securely. You can find all these items at www.dynamic-living.com or call 888-940-0605.

Vision Helpers: If you find that you’ve become more sensitive to sun glare or have lost some mobility in your neck that makes looking back over your shoulder difficult, consider these:

• Sun Glare Shield: It clips on your sun visor and provides extra protection from sun glare. Available at www.autosportcatalog.com or by calling 800-953-0814.

• Panoramic Rear View Mirror: A convex-like mirror (attaches to your rear view mirror) tha

increases peripheral vision and helps eliminate blind spots so you can see traffic to the sides and rear without significant neck or body rotation. It also helps during parking.

• Convex Side View Mirror (corner wedge): Attaches to side view mirrors to improve side and rear vision. You can find convex mirrors at auto supply stores or at www.autobarn.com or by calling 888-484-9560.

Seat Belt Aids: Providing comfort without sacrificing safety is the goal with seat belt aids. Here are some items to try:

• Easy Reach Seat Belt Handle: A six-inch extension handle that attaches to your seat belt to make it easier to reach. Ideal for those who suffer from arthritis or limited mobility. www.dynamic-living.com. or call 888-940-0605

• Seat Belt Pad: Protect your neck and shoulder from rubbing and chafing. Available in auto supply stores or at www.autosportcatalog.com. Call 800-953-0814.

• Seat Belt Strap Adjuster: Allows you to position your seat belt shoulder strap between your shoulder and neck for greater comfort and safety. Available in auto supply stores or at www.magellans.com or call 800-962-4943.

Extra Helpers: If you suffer from arthritis in your hands or need some help seeing over the steering wheel or reaching the foot pedals, you may find these items useful:

• Key Holder/Extender: Attaches to your car keys to provide additional leverage, making it easier to turn the key in the ignition or door. www.lifewithease.com or call 800-966-5119.

• Orthopedic Car Cushion: Supports the back while driving and elevates you a few extra inches so you can see well. www.brookstone.com or call 866-576-7337.

• Foot Pedal Extensions: Allows you to comfortably reach the gas and break pedals. Costs for these will range from $160 to $210 and they must be installed by a professional. www.savvysenior.org 973-808-9709

Savvy Tip: Custom features like swivel car seats and electric cranes that can hoist a wheelchair or scooter into the trunk are also available and can be installed into many different new or used cars, vans, trucks and SUVs. Costs start at around $1400. For more information, visit www.bruno.com or call 800-462-0664.

Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit www.savvysenior.org. Jim Miller is a regular contributor to the NBC Today Show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.