Do You Have Trouble Driving in the Dark?

Many older adults complain about being unable to see clearly while driving at night. Experts explain that night blindness, also known as nyctalopia, makes it difficult to see well in dim or dark settings as the person’s eyes are unable to adjust to changes in brightness or to detect lights. Driving at night with this condition is not only a problem but is dangerous, and it is more common in seniors.

The condition is caused when the iris, the colored part of the eye, and the retina aren’t working well together. The iris has muscles that widen or narrow the opening of the pupil to adjust how much light enters the eyes. The retina has light-detecting cones and rods, which manage vision in dim light. When the irises’ muscles don’t react well; pupils can dilate and let in too much light or remain too small and make it hard to see in dim light.

A number of things can exacerbate night blindness including something we cannot control – old age. Dr. Isabel Deakins, an optometrist with Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts Eye and Ear, explains as we age, “"The number of rods in our eyes diminishes, pupils get smaller, and the muscles of the irises weaken."

Other conditions that can cause night blindness include glaucoma, cataracts, dry eye syndrome and certain medications. There are treatments for glaucoma, cataracts and dry eyes. For other people, a stronger pair of glasses or ones that reduce glare may help.

Other strategies to improve night vision are to routinely clean the windshield, side mirrors and headlights. If you wear glasses, make sure they are clean. Be sure to dim the interior dashboard lights for night driving and use the night setting for the rear view mirror. If you are having trouble seeing in dim or dark settings, you need to stop driving and make an appointment with an optometrist or ophthalmologist.

At MorningStar at River Oaks, our mission is to provide the finest senior living in Houston, and we are committed to the comfort, wellbeing, and safety of our remarkable residents. This includes scheduled transportation to doctor visits as well as shopping trips to area stores, local restaurants and other events. To experience our community up close, contact us to schedule a visit.

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003. We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us for more information about the finest senior living Houston offers.

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