Technology is rapidly changing to help improve our daily lives at home, in stores, and in vehicles. Here are some simple and effective ways seniors can benefit from new digital features in automotive technology.
Driving and managing automotive vehicles can be difficult for some people, especially when other drivers don’t respect the Rules of the Road. Senior citizens, who often drive more carefully, can be more vulnerable to health conditions that can make certain outings more taxing than others. Musculoskeletal problems can make it more difficult for seniors to turn their heads, for example. Sore hips can make it more difficult to properly adjust the accelerator and brake pedal. Getting to and from a vehicle can be more difficult without a Handicap Parking Permit if walking is difficult or causes over-exertion. Luckily, seniors can benefit greatly not only from practicing safe driving and driving safer vehicles, but also by using the features of recent digital technological upgrades.
Find My Car App
Many of us struggle to remember where we park in unfamiliar areas. The “Find my Car” app can be very helpful, as it locates drivers’ vehicles by using location information from their phones. For better accuracy, a feature called Honk allows drivers to manually correct the spot where they park.
Parkify App
In addition to accommodating for memory struggles, there are many apps and features that make it easier for seniors to find empty parking spots. An app called Parkify tells drivers where they can park and when a parking spot becomes available. If a driver goes to the same place on a regular basis, the app can also help them find the parking spot they’ve previously used. Apps to help locate vehicles and parking spots are very convenient for drivers who may live or have doctor’s appointments in busier cities. Keep a close eye on Parking Apps. For example, the ParkChicago App has had a history of generating false parking tickets because poor cell phone coverage at some parking spots prevents the parking spot transaction from registering properly.
Key Fobs
Due to nerve conditions, such as arthritis, some seniors struggle to turn keys. These drivers can benefit from gadgets that allow them to automatically lock and unlock their cars. Many of these gadgets also work for automatic doors so that drivers with disabilities have easy access without having to do anything. However, don’t make the mistake of accidentally or purposefully leaving your Key Fob in the car overnight when you go to sleep, or when you leave the vehicle parked unattended. If you leave your key fob in the car you are at increased risk of being an auto theft victim.
Built-In Navigation
Built-in navigation systems are great for communication and GPS purposes. Verbal commands allow seniors to hear how to get places and how far to travel. If they have hearing difficulties, they can use built-in navigation screens that include written directions as well as maps.
Vehicle Backup Cameras
Back-end cameras with vehicle alerts are fantastic features for any motorist, and especially seniors in their golden years. A senior doesn’t have to turn their head 180 degrees when they have an in-dash rear camera view with guidance markers and collision alerts
With so many seniors worried about getting COVID-19, touchless features can reduce their exposure to viruses and bacteria. For instance, they can find their cars faster and more efficiently. With automatic controls, they do not have to touch door handles or parking meters.
Ultimately, it’s evident that new digital automotive technology benefits seniors, and we hope these features can help you or a loved one get the most out of your vehicles with increased safety.
Get updates from The Cardinal ALL NEWS FEEDS on Facebook. Just ‘LIKE’ the ‘Arlington Cardinal Page (become a fan of our page). The updates cover all posts and sub-category posts from The Cardinal — Arlingtoncardinal.com. You can also limit feeds to specific categories. See all of The Cardinal Facebook fan pages at Arlingtoncardinal.com/about/facebook …
Help fund The Cardinal Arlingtoncardinal.com/sponsor