According to the Federal Highway Administration, as of 2022, around 55 million licensed drivers in the U.S. were 65 years old and older, accounting for one in five motorists.
While age brings experience, it also brings aches and pains. That doesn’t mean older drivers aren’t good drivers. But it does mean they may want to enjoy the finer things in life, including a more pleasant driving experience. With that said, consider these 16 must-have car gadgets every senior driver should own.
Blind Spot Mirrors
All vehicles have blind spots, but some have more than others. Nationwide Disability Representatives says north of 800,000 blind spot collisions happen annually in the U.S.
Blind spot mirrors (small convex mirrors that attach to your car’s side mirrors) can enhance visibility and eliminate most, if not all, blind spots.
Backup Camera
A backup camera is another example of technology all senior drivers should have in their vehicles. If you already have one, you know how useful it can be when you need to back out of a space. It can be especially useful if you have difficulty looking over your shoulder while backing out.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System
If your vehicle doesn’t include a tire pressure monitoring system, you can get relatively inexpensive aftermarket products that work reasonably well. Driving with tires that are underinflated or overinflated is asking for trouble. But with the right tire pressure monitoring system, you’ll receive notifications if something’s wrong so you can top up immediately.
Seat Belt Extender
A seat belt extender is worth considering. They’re designed to be used when the original seat belt in your vehicle isn’t long enough. If you wear bulky clothing during the winter or are plus-sized and need a longer seat belt, a seat belt extender can be a godsend.
Emergency Escape Tool
An emergency escape tool can be a lifesaver should you ever find yourself trapped in a vehicle. Keep it in your glove box—if your car flips over or the doors won’t open, use the emergency escape tool to cut the seat belt and break through the glass to exit the vehicle.
Portable Tire Inflator
It’s also a good idea to get a portable tire inflator—preferably one with an integrated tire pressure gauge. You never know when it’ll come in handy. You’ll be truly grateful for such a unit if you’re out and about and find that one or more of your tires are underinflated.
Roadside Emergency Kit
Don’t leave home without a roadside emergency kit. While you don’t want anything bad to happen, you should hope for the best but prepare for the worst. When the worst happens, it often comes out of left field when you least expect it. Keep a roadside emergency kit in your trunk so that you have it just in case something goes wrong.
Dash Camera
Do you know that around 10% to 18% of people employ dashcams while driving in the U.S.? If you don’t have one, get one; if you don’t use the one you have, start doing so. Benefits of dashboard cameras include capturing collision evidence, sending dash cam footage to insurers, recording the surroundings of your car when it’s parked car, and more.
Gel Seat Cushions
Gel seat cushions are a good idea if you need more comfort when driving your vehicle—and who doesn’t? You’ll get the most benefit on long trips when spending lots of time behind the wheel. A gel seat cushion can make the journey, not just the destination, more enjoyable.
Memory Foam Neck Pillow
As an older driver, you might enjoy having a memory foam neck pillow. These pillows provide head and neck support, alleviate stress, and afford pressure relief. After seeing how well they work, you won’t want to leave home without one.
Remote Starter
A remote starter can be a game-changer. If you hate getting into a cold car in the winter or a hot car in the summer, a remote starter will allow you to start the vehicle and run it until the interior temperature is comfortable. And you can do so from inside your home, making your life and drive a little bit easier.
Car Door Handle Assist
Do you have difficulty entering and exiting your vehicle? A car door handle assist can be the answer. It’s a piece of equipment that hooks onto the door frame, providing leverage so you can get in and out of your vehicle easier.
Car Battery Jump Starter
It’s a good idea to have a vehicle battery jump starter kit. Otherwise, you’ll have to call AAA or ask another driver to help you jump-start your car. You’re better off with a car battery jump starter to get the boost you need without relying on someone else.
Voice-Controlled Assistant
If you want the ultimate in-car convenience, get a voice-controlled assistant that will allow you to get things done using the power of your voice. There are various voice-controlled assistants you can use to send text messages, play music, or program navigation.
Air Purifier
Another car gadget to add to your must-have list is an air purifier. This can improve cabin air quality, which can be a game-changer if you have respiratory issues or allergies.
Hands-Free Bluetooth Speakers
Another useful car gadget is a hands-free Bluetooth speaker. Equipped with one of these devices, you can make and receive phone calls without touching your phone, allowing you to focus on the road and avoid trouble.
Consider These Car Gadgets if You’re a Senior Motorist
These are some must-have car gadgets if you’re a senior driver. Many items on this list are suitable for drivers of all ages. However, they can benefit older drivers with years or decades of driving experience under their belts.
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