Is It Time to Stop Driving at Night? My Experience & Solutions

As I've gotten older, I've noticed that things I used to take for granted, like driving at night, aren't quite as easy as they used to be. It's a common concern, and I want to share my experience and what I've learned about navigating the challenges of **night driving** as we age. I hope my story can help others facing similar situations.

The Night Driving Struggle: My Story

It started subtly. Headlights seemed brighter, and it took longer for my eyes to adjust. Then, one evening after a late doctor's appointment about an hour away, I was driving back home. It was Friday night, rush hour, and I was merging onto the Bay Shore highway after crossing the Bay Bridge. The traffic was dense, and the glare from the other cars was almost blinding. That's when I realized that night driving wasn't just a minor inconvenience anymore; it was genuinely stressful.

I even remember a time in my early 30s when I was more of a night owl. Late-night studying, rare parties, even hanging out at 24-hour diners – those were things I used to do without a second thought. But as I got older, I realized how much better it was to get things done during daylight hours. I started prioritizing daytime activities and minimizing the need to be out at night.

My optometrist suggested I get "over" glasses to improve my night vision. While they helped somewhat, I knew I needed a more comprehensive approach. I also started thinking more about the risks, especially living in a rural area. Deer are a constant threat, and the thought of hitting one filled me with dread. So, I began to actively plan my life to minimize night driving as much as possible.

My Solutions for Safer Night Driving

Here's what I've found helpful in managing my night driving challenges:

• Cataract Surgery: This was a game-changer for me. I had cataract surgery a few years ago, and it significantly improved my night vision. Before the surgery, I struggled to see clearly at night, but now it's much better.
• Anti-Blue Light Glasses: I've started wearing anti-blue light glasses, especially when driving at dusk or dawn. I recently discovered the Square Anti Blue Light Blocking Glasses from Cinily Net.

  

  These glasses have TR90 frames and are comfortable to wear. They really seem to help reduce the glare from headlights. They're available from Cinily Spring Collection, and I've been happy with the quality. Wearing these while **night driving** has made a noticeable difference.
• Strategic Planning: I try to schedule appointments and errands during the day whenever possible. If I know I'll be out late, I'll often ask someone else to drive or use a ride-sharing service.
• Local Driving Only: If I have to drive at night, I stick to familiar local routes. I avoid highways and busy roads as much as possible.

Tips for Safer Night Driving

Based on my experiences, here are some practical tips for safer night driving:

1. Get Regular Eye Exams: Regular check-ups are essential to detect and address any vision problems early on.
2. Clean Your Windshield: A clean windshield can significantly reduce glare.
3. Adjust Your Mirrors: Properly adjusted mirrors can help minimize blind spots.
4. Slow Down: Reducing your speed gives you more time to react to unexpected situations.
5. Take Breaks: If you're driving long distances at night, take frequent breaks to rest your eyes.

The Challenges of Backing Up and Limited Mobility

It's not just night driving that's become more challenging. I've also found that backing out of parking spaces, especially in crowded parking lots, is much harder than it used to be. My neck and back don't twist like they used to, a result of cervical and lumbar fusions. This makes it difficult to see clearly when backing up, regardless of the time of day.

To address this, I try to park in end spots whenever possible, so I can pull through instead of backing out. I also rely heavily on my car's backup camera and sensors. If I'm unsure about backing out safely, I'll ask someone for assistance.

Weighing the Pros and Cons of Night Driving

Here's a quick look at the pros and cons of night driving as we age:

Pros	Cons
Less Traffic (Sometimes)	Reduced Visibility
Quieter Roads	Increased Glare
Can be More Relaxing (For Some)	Slower Reaction Times

My Key Takeaways

Here’s what I’ve learned about night driving and aging:

• Vision is Key: Regular eye exams and addressing vision problems are crucial.
• Plan Ahead: Minimizing night driving through strategic planning can significantly reduce stress.
• Utilize Technology: Tools like anti-blue light glasses and backup cameras can enhance safety.
• Know Your Limits: Be honest about your abilities and adjust your driving habits accordingly.
• Consider Alternatives: When possible, explore alternatives like ride-sharing or asking someone else to drive.

Final Thoughts

Navigating the challenges of night driving as we age requires awareness, planning, and a willingness to adapt. By taking proactive steps to address vision problems, minimize risks, and utilize available resources, we can continue to enjoy our independence while prioritizing our safety and the safety of others. Remember, it's okay to admit that things are changing and to adjust your driving habits accordingly. Cinily Net also offers a great selection of stylish glasses to help. Stay safe out there!