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of motion in the neck, torso, arms, legs, or joints.
Vertigo, dizziness, or loss of balance can occur along
with muscle spasms or tremors that may cause you to
lose control of your vehicle.
Medications
Older adults take longer to process and eliminate
any kind of medication, both prescriptions and over-
the-counter drugs. Even medicines that might not
have caused any trouble in the past can build up
over time and affect you more strongly than before.
When you are on multiple medications, the drugs
may not mix together well and sometimes can cause
unintended side effects. According to a study by AAA
Safety Foundation, 90 percent of older drivers take
prescription medications, and two-thirds of those
taking any medication take multiple medications. Drugs
that affect the brain, nerves, and emotions tend to
affect driving more frequently. This may affect your
ability to perceive hazards on the road and respond
quickly.
If you are on three (3)
or more medications
or a new medication,
go over your medicines
with a pharmacist or
physician to see if there
are any that could
cause problems with driving ability. Medications that
should be checked include, but are not limited to:
r seizure medications
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