Aging Well in November
Welcome to our November blog post. We’re so glad you’re here!
As the year winds down and we spend more time on the road visiting family and friends, it’s a great moment to check in on the habits that help us stay independent, strong, and energized. This month, we’re focusing on the freedom that comes with confident driving and how small actions can help keep you safe and capable behind the wheel.
You’ll find helpful reminders about refreshing your driving skills each year, simple exercises to support the strength and flexibility needed for comfortable driving, and a quick, healthy breakfast recipe to start your day right.
Whether you’re planning a road trip, running daily errands, or simply want to keep feeling your best, these tips are designed to help you age well, on and off the road.
Driving represents independence, freedom, and connection — especially for older adults who rely on their cars to stay active and involved in their communities. However, as we age, natural changes in vision, reaction time, flexibility, and attention can affect driving ability. Regularly assessing and improving driving skills isn’t about taking away the keys — it’s about staying confident, capable, and safe on the road.
Why Annual Skill Checks Matter
Even experienced drivers can develop habits or limitations over time without realizing it. Annual driving assessments can:
Identify subtle changes in vision, coordination, or decision-making that could impact safety.
Prevent accidents by catching risky patterns before they lead to a problem.
Build confidence by helping drivers know their strengths and where to focus improvement efforts.
Encourage independence by allowing drivers to make proactive adjustments, such as using adaptive equipment or planning routes more efficiently.
How to Evaluate Driving Skills
A good starting point is self-assessment — asking questions like:
Do I have trouble seeing street signs or judging distances at night?
Do I sometimes miss traffic signals or feel surprised by fast-moving cars?
Do I feel anxious in heavy traffic or unfamiliar areas?
Beyond self-reflection, professional driving assessments can be invaluable. Aging Well also includes a Drive Well program based on location. We provide feedback and practical recommendations to improve safe driving and prolong independence. Other programs may be available at local hospitals and rehabilitation programs. We can assist in finding those in your area as well.
Ways to Improve Driving Skills
Improvement doesn’t stop with identification — it’s about taking action. Seniors can:
Take refresher courses (like those offered by AARP or AAA) focused on updated road laws and safe driving techniques.
Exercise regularly to maintain strength, flexibility, and coordination for better control and reaction time.
Have vision and hearing checked annually to ensure full sensory awareness behind the wheel.
Adjust driving habits, such as avoiding night driving or high-traffic times if they cause discomfort.
The Bottom Line
Driving is a privilege — and a skill that can be strengthened with awareness and practice. Annual reviews and ongoing learning help seniors remain safe, independent, and confident drivers for as long as possible. Taking the time to check in on driving ability is not a sign of weakness, it’s a sign of wisdom and commitment to safety for oneself and others on the road. We look forward to working with you on Driving Well!
Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats
Ingredients:
½ cup old-fashioned oats
½ cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
½ apple, chopped
½ tsp cinnamon
1 tsp chia seeds (optional for extra fiber)
Directions:
Combine everything in a jar or bowl.
Stir well and refrigerate overnight.
Eat cold or warm up in the morning.
Why it’s good: Whole grains + fruit = slow energy release and gut-friendly fiber.
Join Brendie Barnes, CEO and President of Aging Well, for a few functional exercises and stretches designed to help you stay mobile behind the wheel and maintain your independence.
Click HERE to join Brendie.
If you’d like to learn more about these exercises or explore additional ways to stay strong and independent as you age, we’d love to support you. Reach out or schedule a free Discovery Call — we’re here to help.
Please note: Always check with your healthcare provider before beginning any new exercise program.
