Older drivers urged to have eye checks before any road trip

Older drivers planning a trip over the Christmas – new year break are being urged to have their eyes checked to help protect themselves on the roads.
 
Victorian motorists’ organisation RACV and Optometrists Association Australia are encouraging older drivers to have their eyesight checked for vision problems or eye disease.
 
“The Easter holiday is a busy time on our roads and we urge drivers to ensure that they are well prepared and fit to drive,” said RACV’s Road User team manager, Thanuja Gunatillake.

“This is particularly important for older drivers, as vision begins to deteriorate with age.”
 
“There are many things older drivers can do to protect themselves and enjoy driving for longer. Ensuring their eyesight meets safe driving standards should be a top priority.”
 
Optometrists Association Australia’s professional services manager, Shirley Loh, said ageing can impact one’s ability to see clearly at night, objects in the distance and out of the corner of your eye.
 
“Older Australians are also at risk of eye disease, such as glaucoma, cataract and macular degeneration. For example, one in seven Australians aged 50 or over have signs of macular degeneration which can affect driving by causing blurred central vision,” said Ms Loh.
 
“Our research shows that on average, older Australians only have their eyes examined around every four years, and as a result may be unaware of problems that can lead to poor reaction times and misjudgment on the roads.”
 
“It’s surprising that 62% of Australians who don’t meet the vision standard for driving simply aren’t wearing the right pair of spectacles.”

“Regular eye checks can help to detect and treat vision problems early. Your optometrist can run a simple eye examination to help you feel confident on the roads,” she said.
 
RACV and Optometrists Association Australia offer the following tips for confident, safe driving:

• Plan your journey to minimise the risk of driving at night, busy times or in poor conditions.
• Pull over and rest if you feel tired and allow yourself plenty of time to get to your destination.
• Have your eyes examined regularly by an optometrist.
• Speak to your family and friends about your driving capabilities and any concerns you might have about your eye health.

Participate in RACV’s ‘Years Ahead’ road safety for seniors program; a free one-hour program is available to groups of older people. For bookings or more information phone (03) 9790 2915.
 
To find your local optometrist, visit http://www.optometrists.asn.au. Eye examinations attract a Medicare rebate and no referral is required.