Growing Older, Driving Safely Safe driving requires complex
visual processing – abilities that may begin to decline as we
age. A loss in your visual abilities could endanger you and
others on the road. But you can maintain your independence and
drive safely longer if you: 1. Get a complete eye exam
regularly, 2. Know the vision issues that can affect your
driving, 3. Understand the laws in your state about driving as
you age, and 4. Talk to your eye doctor about maintaining your
fitness to drive It is important to note that visual processing
is but one component of safe driving. Other key factors include
1) the motor ability to scan rapidly changing environments; 2)
the sensory ability to perceive information in a rapidly
changing environment; 3) the attentiveness to process multiple
pieces of information; and 4) the cognitive and motor ability to
judge information in a timely fashion and to make appropriate
decisions. Know the Law in Your State ► Know the Law in Your
State ▼ Vision and Driving Visual Acuity