Age is merely a number and there are some older drivers who have experienced little if any physical diminishment. Still, for many, the march of time brings with it ailments and conditions that can make driving uncomfortable and downright dangerous. Fortunately, today's automobiles are available with a host of features designed to help compensate for many of the physical changes that can come with aging.
Lower-body mobility issues such as limited knee range and leg pain are common for those over 55. Features such as adjustable power seats, a low door threshold and adjustable foot pedals can help lessen or eliminate discomfort.
Many seniors also face upper-body mobility issues that can cause pain or stiffness in the back, neck, arms or shoulders. Adjustable lumbar support and heated seats can help soothe aching backs and shoulders. Large wide-angle mirrors and large rear windows aid visibility, and can work with a rear backup camera, active parallel-park assistance, and front and rear parking sensors to help senior drivers maneuver their vehicles without engaging in too much of the upper-body twisting and turning that can be painful for those with stiffness in the neck or shoulders.
Age can bring with it shorter stature. Starting at age 40, people typically lose about a half an inch in height with each decade, according to studies conducted by Harvard Medical School. Age can also bring weight gain. A recent study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that one-third of seniors aged 65 and older wrestle with obesity. Features such as adjustable seats, adjustable foot pedals and a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel can help both shorter and overweight drivers to find safe and supportive seating positions.
Arthritis is a common disease of aging, and it can result in stiff fingers and compromised fine-motor skills. A thick steering wheel is easier for arthritic hands to grasp, and keyless entry and ignition helps these drivers avoid the potentially painful hand movements involved in inserting and twisting a key. Other user-friendly features for arthritic drivers include a heated power mirror and larger dashboard controls. In SUVs and crossovers, an automatic tailgate closer can be a real bonus for drivers with arthritis.
Vision is another faculty that can diminish with age. Older drivers may have difficulty reading information presented on their vehicles' instrument panels. Their eyes may also recover more slowly from glare. Features such as extendable sun visors, larger audio and climate controls, auto-dimming low-glare mirrors and a high-contrast instrument panel can help seniors who face these challenges behind the wheel.
The following 10 vehicles (listed in alphabetical order) each offer features designed to support drivers coping with the conditions discussed above. Our picks include both sedans and SUVs, and range from top-of-the-line luxury models to those with very affordable price tags.
http://www.edmunds.com/car-reviews/top-10/top-10-vehicles-for-seniors-for-2014.html
