DRIVING wards off dementia and is GOOD for your health

GETTING behind the wheel of a car may reduce dementia risk and provide other health benefits for the elderly, a study has revealed.

 

Driving has been shown to be good for your mental state

 

GETTING behind the wheel of a car may reduce dementia risk and provide other health benefits for the elderly, a study has revealed.

Older adults may benefit from driving a car, according to the latest research.

Not only could driving boost cognitive function, staving off conditions like dementia, but it may also halt the ageing process.

 

Mental and physical health can decline once people stop driving

 

The research found that once older adults stop driving or are forced to give up their mental and physical health can decline.

Losing independence can often result in feelings of depression. 

Previous studies support the notion that stopping driving can increase depressive symptoms.

 

The researchers say driving can halt depressive symptoms

 

Professor Dr Guohua Li of Columbia University, New York, said: "For many older adults, driving is instrumental to their daily living and is a strong indicator of self-control, personal freedom and independence.

"Unfortunately, it is almost inevitable to face the decision to stop driving during the process of ageing as cognitive and physical functions continue to decline.

"When the decision time comes, it is important to take into consideration the adverse health consequences of driving cessation and make personalised plans to maintain mobility and social functions."

 

The process of driving could ward off dementia risk

 

Currently, there is no upper age limit for driving a car. You can decide when to stop as long as you don’t have any medical conditions that affect your driving.

However, all drivers have to renew their driving licence when they reach the age of 70 and every three years from then on. You don't need to have a medical or driving test to renew your licence.