One of the unexpected transitions in retirement is not driving a car every day.  I can remember wishing for that day when I no longer had to deal with a work commute, but now getting stuck in traffic is even more frustrating because I don’t have to do it every day.  I can eventually see myself as one of those “old guys” that has a death grip on the steering wheel and a deer-in-headlights look in their eyes, as you finally get past them on the highway.  I’m not to that point yet, but lack of practice time will inevitably lead to a loss of confidence.  I should have a bumper sticker that reads, “DANGER:  GIVE ME SPACE.”

I felt great giving the Insurance Company a call to let them know that I’m retired and will be driving fewer miles.  It actually saved a few bucks, but also probably sent a warning signal that I will start to loose my sharpness in fighting the traffic battles.  I’m sure there’s a probability chart that shows an increase in accidents following a reduction in annual miles logged for men over 65 with curly hair.

The other morning I had to cross town for a 9 a.m. “leadership meeting” about baseball card collecting.  It took me an hour and fifteen minutes to navigate though stalled traffic, cross a bumper-to bumper bridge-jam, and find a parking spot.  I was exhausted by the time I got there, an indication that I’m simply out of commuting-shape.  My patience was worn thin, my nerves on edge, and my reflexes slow.  It was a good thing that I wasn’t leading the meeting because I was a half-hour late and out of breath by the time I arrived.  Every time I get in the car my conscience begs me to not leave the comfort of my home.  “Go back to bed,” it screams!  It’s such a relief when I finally get back home safely.

I realize that all those years of commuting created a sense of immunity, and now I’m vulnerable.  Without daily lane-change practice, my level of tolerance has decreased and my lack of patience has increased, as my common sense pleads with me stay in front of the TV, read a book instead, call Uber, or get a ride with a friend.  Old age has definitely affected my depth perception, night vision, timing, hearing, and response time, while lack of regular practice has made me far from perfect.  I drive much less, but now I’m afraid there’s a greater chance of having an accident.  Maybe retired guys like me should have warning signs on their cars like drivers in training?  Hopefully, new technology will keep me safe by doing the driving for me.  It’s just another reason why “the older you get the more technology you need!”