In the know.

The hustle and bustle of the summer season is just around the corner! Soon, mass travel will begin as families gather for graduations, weddings, and vacations across the country. As a result, many older adults will be hitting the highway and burning up the miles to make these special memories with their loved ones.

When it comes to driving, there are a multitude of ways older adults should be prepared for safe travel. A few of the most common suggestions for improved safety for seniors include the following recommendations: 

• Drive during daylight hours
• Avoid driving during bad weather
• Limit distractions
• Consult with a doctor regularly about any recommended driving restrictions

In addition to these helpful tips, there is one common phenomenon that can occur when driving on long, monotonous stretches of road, or even on repetitive routes that seniors should be aware of. This phenomenon is called, highway hypnosis.

So, what is highway hypnosis? Have you ever pulled into your driveway, put your car in park, then suddenly realized that you don't recall the journey from point A to point B? If the answer is yes, you have experienced highway hypnosis. The condition takes place when the driver is in a trance-like state of mind while operating a vehicle.

Interestingly, the driver may still respond to traffic lights and signals without being totally aware. On the other hand, it is also possible to miss turns or exits, fail to use proper signals, and fail to respond appropriately to traffic rules. The brain has literally gone into autopilot, going through the motions of driving without full awareness. In this distracted state, the driver is less likely to respond quickly to unexpected changes like sudden braking or a detour.

While experiencing highway hypnosis, the driver may lose track of time or even get lost before they eventually snap out of it.

While drivers of any age can experience this trance like state, older adults are considered more susceptible. Naturally, there are other conditions that when added to the mix can put the driver at an even higher risk. For example, driving at night, driving while sleep deprived, driving solo, or driving repetitive routes add to the probability.

The best ways to minimize the risk of highway hypnosis is to add the following practices to your travel routine: 

• Open a window on occasion to get fresh air or adjust the air conditioning
• Listen to engaging music, podcasts, or audio books
• Keep flavorful candy or gum handy, especially mint which enhances alertness and focus
• Keep your mind awake with conversation, counting games, mindful breathing, or sing-alongs
• Take regular breaks and/or switch drivers
• Change up your route if it has become too monotonous
• Only drive when well rested

Travel is one of life's greatest joys. Hopefully these tips help you get where you are going safely and with added confidence.