Driving is a rite of passage for every adult, and one that is challenged by the effects of aging later in life. It’s especially important for seniors to invest in a safe vehicle to maintain their ability to drive, and their independence. An average of 20 seniors are killed and 794 injured each day in automobile crashes. The effects of aging can pose serious risks to driving, and because of this, the unique needs of seniors should be considered when selecting a suitable vehicle.
Safety Features
From accessible vehicle design to much-needed safety features, it’s not hard to find automobiles that fit the needs of seniors. Given the challenges that can come with aging, more advanced safety features can provide the additional security needed on the road.
- Blind–spot sensors detect and warn drivers of vehicles alongside them, with a visual, audible, or tactile indication that it would be unsafe to change lanes.
- Forward collision warning technology alerts drivers with visual, audible, or tactile warning system if it detects an object in the automobile’s path that could result in a collision.
- Automatic emergency braking activates if a potential collision is detected, and can initiate the braking mechanism if the driver doesn’t do so in time.
- Self-parking is a feature that can automatically steer an automobile into parallel and perpendicular parking spaces or sound an alarm should the automobile align too closely with another.
- Navigation systems are particularly helpful for seniors when they are equipped with a large display screen and voice activation.
- Adaptive cruise control helps a vehicle maintain a safe distance from those ahead of it by automatically adjusting the cruise control.
- A backup camera allows for a live video feed of what is behind the vehicle while the driver reverses, showing objects a driver may not see otherwise.
- Automatic high beams turn brighter or dimmer, based on the available light on the road, maintaining brightness for drivers who may forget to turn them on.
- Medical alert systems are not standard in automobiles, but are a vital safety feature for senior drivers. Bay Alarm Medical offers the first ever medical alert device designed for automobiles. The device plugs into a 12V outlet and is equipped with a sensor to detect a crash and automatically notify an emergency response center. Mobile medical alert systems are also an option, and medical alert system reviews can reveal which ones are most compatible with a senior’s lifestyle.
Best Sedans for Seniors
If sedans are their preference, seniors have some solid options with the Kia Forte, Subaru Legacy, Chrysler 200, and Toyota Corolla. With affordability, the Kia Forte boasts lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and forward collision warning. The Subaru Legacy comes standard with automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Lane departure warning, blind–spot sensors, and forward collision warning are available with the Chrysler 200. The Toyota Corolla comes standard with automatic emergency braking, and forward collision warning, in addition to great fuel economy.
Best Crossovers for Seniors
Should seniors prefer a crossover, the Honda CR-V, Nissan Rogue, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Mazda CX-5 are worth considering. The Honda CR-V offers such standard safety features as vehicle stability assist and multi-angle rearview camera. Standard safety features on the Nissan Rogue include lane departure warning, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. Standard safety systems for the Hyundai Santa Fe include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind–spot sensors. The Mazda CX-5 boasts standard features of forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking.
Best SUVs for Seniors
If in the market for an SUV, seniors would benefit from exploring the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Kia Sorento, and Subaru Ascent. The Toyota Highlander boasts automatic high beams, dynamic radar cruise control, and lane departure warning, in terms of safety features. The Honda Pilot comes standard with an advanced safety system that includes forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. Forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind–spot sensors are standard on the Kia Sorento. The Subaru Ascent comes equipped with such safety features as automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.
There is no shortage of options for seniors in the market for a vehicle these days as safer technological innovations are always increasing in the automobile industry, and aftermarket options are plentiful also. Considering the challenging effects of aging, such as reduced vision and hearing, arthritis, slower reflexes, memory concerns, it is in the best interests of seniors to consider safety features when selecting a vehicle for this life stage. Likewise, seniors should consider finding the best medical alert system to accompany them while driving and on the go.
As they transition through any number of changes in their lifestyle, investment in a car that meets the unique needs of seniors is a key consideration in safely maintaining their independence.
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