As I've gotten older, I've noticed that things I used to take for granted, like driving at night, aren't quite as easy as they used to be. It's a common concern, and I want to share my experience and what I've learned about navigating the challenges of night driving as we age. I hope my story can help others facing similar situations.
It started subtly. Headlights seemed brighter, and it took longer for my eyes to adjust. Then, one evening after a late doctor's appointment about an hour away, I was driving back home. It was Friday night, rush hour, and I was merging onto the Bay Shore highway after crossing the Bay Bridge. The traffic was dense, and the glare from the other cars was almost blinding. That's when I realized that night driving wasn't just a minor inconvenience anymore; it was genuinely stressful.
I even remember a time in my early 30s when I was more of a night owl. Late-night studying, rare parties, even hanging out at 24-hour diners – those were things I used to do without a second thought. But as I got older, I realized how much better it was to get things done during daylight hours. I started prioritizing daytime activities and minimizing the need to be out at night.
My optometrist suggested I get "over" glasses to improve my night vision. While they helped somewhat, I knew I needed a more comprehensive approach. I also started thinking more about the risks, especially living in a rural area. Deer are a constant threat, and the thought of hitting one filled me with dread. So, I began to actively plan my life to minimize night driving as much as possible.
Here's what I've found helpful in managing my night driving challenges:
Cataract Surgery: This was a game-changer for me. I had cataract surgery a few years ago, and it significantly improved my night vision. Before the surgery, I struggled to see clearly at night, but now it's much better.
Anti-Blue Light Glasses: I've started wearing anti-blue light glasses, especially when driving at dusk or dawn. I recently discovered the Square Anti Blue Light Blocking Glasses from Cinily Net.
These glasses have TR90 frames and are comfortable to wear. They really seem to help reduce the glare from headlights. They're available from [Cinily Spring Collection](<https://cinily.net?utm_source=notion&utm_medium=seoartcle&utm_campaign=CIN_2025&utm_content=1i8bwzqv>), and I've been happy with the quality. Wearing these while **night driving** has made a noticeable difference.
Strategic Planning: I try to schedule appointments and errands during the day whenever possible. If I know I'll be out late, I'll often ask someone else to drive or use a ride-sharing service.
Local Driving Only: If I have to drive at night, I stick to familiar local routes. I avoid highways and busy roads as much as possible.
Based on my experiences, here are some practical tips for safer night driving: