When vision is limited Tips for motorists

Driving tips for impaired vision
Especially seniors often look bad. Most eye diseases come in old age. But not only patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) or cataracts see worse, but often also people with Alzheimer's disease. Motorists should pay attention to some tips.

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Clean the glasses and windscreen regularly
There are many reasons for diminishing eyesight. For example, green age or age-related macular degeneration (AMD) are common causes in older people. But according to the German Ophthalmological Society (DOG) sufferers do not necessarily have to give up driving. "Often it helps to drive only in the daytime in a familiar environment and to renounce overtaking maneuvers," said Bernhard Lachenmayr, chairman of the DOG traffic commission to the news agency dpa. In addition, such simple measures as regular cleaning of the glasses and windshield help to reduce the risk of accidents.

Also drive with the headlights on during the day
In Germany alone, 4.5 million people have age-related macular degeneration. The visual acuity during the day and the eyesight in the twilight are impaired, while those who are infected with the green cat can have "blind spots" in the field of vision. "This can mean that vehicles, pedestrians or cyclists are completely overlooked," Lachenmayr explained. He advises those affected, therefore, to drive during the day with headlights, so they are better perceived by other road users and pedestrians. This in turn increases their own safety.

Driving ban in case of too much impairment
An adapted driving behavior can also be trained by specialists, such as the Verkehrswacht Niedersachsen. A driving training offers senior citizens road safety. If the impairments become too big, however, only a driving ban will help. According to Lachenmayr, the attending physician must declare danger in default. "It is difficult for many people to comply with this," says the expert. Relatives would often have to do a lot of persuading with the family doctor to promote their understanding. However, if sufferers refuse to give their driving license, the ophthalmologist may suggest a driving ban to the competent authority. This can then possibly cause the withdrawal of the driver's license.
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