Aides to help driving

As we experience various changes to our strength, flexibility, vision, etc., there may be additional or new challenges to driving safely and comfortably. However, there are lots of devices and gadgets to help making driving easier and safer. Below is a list of some of the products available that can help address a vareity of needs.

Sensivity to glare - aging eyes often become sensitive to glare and the “Sun Zapper Glare Shield” clips on to your sun visor to remove sun glare without obstructing vision.
Small drivers - we my shrink a little as we age as a result of gravity and osteopeorosis and it may become difficult to see over the steering wheel or reach the pedals without being too close to the airbag. Solutions to raise the seat include an orthopedic, wedge-shaped, seat cushion that supports the back and elevates a few extra inches. Foot pedal extensions allow less problems in reaching the foot pedals while allowing adequate room from the steering wheel.

Arthritic or weak hands may make it hard to turn the ignition key, open the gas cap or grip the wheel firmly. Items that can help include:

An "easy-to-grasp key holder", which is a small handle device that attaches to your car key to provide additional leverage.
A "gas cap turner" makes removing the gas cap much easier.
A "padded steering wheel cover" fits over your steering wheel to make your steering wheel easier to grip and more comfortable.

Mobility and flexibility is often a source of problems to get in and out of your car, reach for your seatbelt or look over your shoulder to back-up or merge into traffic. Some handy solutions include:

Handybar is a portable support handle to help get into and out of the car.
Swivel seat cushions are portable and they turn to help rotate the body in and out of the car.
An easy reach seat belt handle is an attachment fastened to your seat belt to make it easier to reach.
Panoramic or wide-view rear view mirrors attach to your existing rear view mirror to widen rear visibility and eliminate blind spots. This can help see traffic without significant neck or body rotation as well as helping with parking.
Convex or wide-angle side view mirrors attach to your side mounted mirror to improve side and rear vision.
A car caddie is another portable handle that hooks around the top of your door window frame to help you lift yourself out of your car.