Fitness to Drive
The Scottish Government and Road Safety Scotland have launched their fitness to drive campaign to kick off the new year. The new scheme is encouraging drivers 60 and over to consider driving habits and take advantage of the free NHS eye examinations available to them.
Recent figures show that 29% of drivers that are killed or seriously injured in traffic collisions were 60 and over. As motorists age driving habits change with them.
Ensuring your eyes are fit to drive
If your vision is affecting the way you drive and you are finding certain things more difficult such as driving at night, it could be a result of changes in your vision. An eye examination could help you continue driving safely.
Changes in your driving don’t have to mean giving up driving. Your local optician can advise on glasses, lenses and treatment for eye conditions.
As well as detecting changes in your vision an eye examination can also pick up eye conditions, identify blood issues and neurological problems.
Are you worried about someone else’s driving?
If you feel someone you know is now a danger to themselves and others on the roads, then it’s important to speak to them about it.
Give them information on alternative travel options that are on offer to them, such as free bus journeys with a National Entitlement Card.
It is the older person’s decision (or the DVLA’s) to stop driving. If you are looking for advice on how to approach the subject, visit the Age UK website.
Janet Pooley, Chief Optometric Adviser says:
“As we get older, we can experience changes to our eyesight, including blurred vision, a reduced visual field and less accuracy when it comes to judging distances... "The best way to make sure your eyes are healthy is to have them examined regularly and to visit your local optometrist if you notice any problems with your eyesight.”
Minister for transport Fiona Hyslop is also encouraging the Scottish population to get their eyes checked regularly... “changes in our eyesight is something we’re all affected by as we get older, and with Scotland’s older population continuing to age, it’s particularly important to ensure we all stay safe on the road”.
A survey conducted last year by age Scotland states that 72% of over 60’s drive as their main mode of transportation. Catherine Crawford, CEO of Age Scotland said, “this campaign is a good reminder for older drivers to get their eyes examined regularly”.
For more information about the campaign or how to book a free eye examination go to Road Safety Scotland's website.