Hearing loss is a widespread challenge for older people, but does it warrant quitting driving? Driving habits differ amongst different people so the response isn’t straightforward.
While hearing loss is a factor to consider when driving a vehicle, a seasoned driver is still proficient even if they have to lower the radio volume.
Whether hearing loss presents a risk while driving is a critical consideration for people planning regular commutes or winter road trips. Is your hearing loss making you a dangerous driver?
Think beyond driving…
Early stage hearing loss probably won’t negatively impact your driving, but if it goes untreated, driving will become increasingly dangerous.
There is a solid link between hearing health and brain health, as reported by Johns Hopkins Medicine. Struggling to hear forces the brain to use valuable resources just to understand what people are saying. It is a contributing factor to brain atrophy, which leads to dementia. Driving is definitely out of the question for someone with dementia.
If you have hearing loss, can you still drive?
You can continue to drive with hearing loss, but it should be mentioned that safe driving demands strong observational skills and this includes auditory awareness. The Center for Hearing and Communication reports that about 48 million Americans have substantial hearing loss, and a good number of them still drive.
Driving with hearing loss
You can still be a safe driver if you make some adjustments and follow these guidelines.
Stop putting off
Come in to see us for a hearing exam and find out if hearing aids will help your situation. Hearing aids can help get rid of the “should I be driving with hearing loss” question.
When you drive, be more observant
Even with hearing aids, you will still need to be a more aware driver to ensure you aren’t missing anything in or around your vehicle.
Keep the noise down inside your car
This will help you be less distracted. Turn the radio off or down and ask your passengers to keep the chit-chat to a minimum.
Remember to check your dashboard often
When you drive with hearing loss, the little things can add up. You may not be capable of hearing that clicking sound that your turn signal makes, for instance. So routinely check your dashboard because your eyes will need to compensate.
Keep your vehicle well maintained
Maybe your car is making a weird noise in the engine but you are unable to hear it. That is a major safety risk, so make a point of getting your car serviced routinely. That’s a good idea for most individuals but a necessity if you are driving with hearing loss.
Watch the other cars closely
This is a no-brainer for everyone but if you have hearing loss it’s even more poignant. You might not hear emergency sirens, for instance, so if the cars are pulling over to the side, you should as well. Look to see how other drivers are responding to their surroundings to get hints on what you might not be hearing.
Can you drive with hearing loss? It’s really a personal decision. It is possible to be a safe driver even if your hearing is not what it once was because odds are your other senses will help you make the adjustment. If the idea makes you uneasy, though, then it’s time to consult us and find a solution to improve your situation, like using hearing aids.
Give us a call right away to schedule your hearing test and look into hearing aid solutions for your unique lifestyle.
References
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/the-hidden-risks-of-hearing-loss
http://chchearing.org/facts-about-hearing-loss