 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Richmond, VA February 28, 2007 - As drivers age, they can expect to experience changes in vision, hearing, and the ability to judge distances. But they can also expect to experience changes in the way their bodies absorb and store medications, supplements, and herbal remedies according to Mary Beth Reckmeyer, Adult/Geriatric Nurse Practitioner at the Medicorp Health System in Fredericksburg, Virginia, and special consultant to the Virginia Department for the Aging's GrandDriver public health initiative. The initiative is a partnership with the Virginia Department for the Aging and the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles. To stay safer behind the wheel as you age, Reckmeyer says, keep three critical preventive measures in mind: tell your doctor about any over-the-counter medications or supplements you may be taking in addition to prescribed medicines, know the potential side effects of your medications and do not mix alcohol with any medications. It's also important to keep an up-to-date written record of all medications including dosage and frequency. To receive a free wallet card for recording medications, call the Virginia Department for the Aging at 1-800-552-3402 or visit www.GrandDriver.net. "Driving a motor vehicle, and the mobility that comes with it, helps maintain a healthy feeling of independence," says Reckmeyer. "So it makes sense to try to stay as safe as possible behind the wheel for as long as possible." Paying attention to the effects of medications, she says, can help all of us stay safer on the road. Reckmeyer makes these points about the possible effects of medications on mature drivers: Talk To Your Doctor or Pharmacist - We may not think twice about taking an over-the-counter pain reliever or cold remedy or even a vitamin if we're already taking blood pressure or heart medication, but the potential for adverse reactions increases dramatically when five or more drugs are taken at the same time. It's important to tell your doctor or pharmacist about all of the medications you take, including vitamins and herbal remedies. It's also important to let your doctor know the regularity with which you operate a motor vehicle. Know The Potential Side Effects - Some medications can cause lightheadedness, confusion, anxiety, overconfidence, sedation and more. As we age, we experience a loss of water and lean body tissue, and an increase in fat tissue, which can greatly impact how medications are absorbed, metabolized, and stored in the body. Staying safer on the road could be as simple as adjusting driving habits as they may relate to your medication management. Do Not Mix Alcohol with Medications -- Slowed responses are a natural part of aging. The use of alcohol and narcotics intensifies this effect. For more information about staying mobile and safe for as long as possible, visit www.GrandDriver.net. |
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