Car travel can become challenging for seniors due to stiff joints, limited mobility, and fatigue. However, making a few minor adaptations can make a big difference. Whether it’s a short trip to the grocery store or a more extended family visit, the right tools can help your loved one stay comfortable and independent on the road.
We’ve rounded up six affordable and straightforward auto aids for seniors that address everyday struggles with adult driving, from easy-entry seat cushions to steering wheel grips that reduce strain. These clever solutions help seniors get in and out safely, ride more comfortably, and maintain their freedom behind the wheel.
Car Travel Can Be Challenging for Seniors and Caregivers
Simply getting in or out of a vehicle can be difficult for seniors, whether they drive themselves or are passengers.
This can be caused by health conditions or the physical changes that occur with normal aging.
For someone with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, Parkinson’s, stroke, or mobility issues, getting in and out of a car can be even more difficult.
It might even take multiple people to help them in and out safely.
We explain why it’s important to make car travel easier and share six simple auto aids that are inexpensive but solve the seemingly minor problems that can make car travel so challenging.
Safe Car Accessories Can Help Seniors Get Around Safely
Car travel is necessary because seniors need to go out into the world, especially for critical tasks like doctor’s appointments.
Making car rides easier and more comfortable means that seniors who can drive will feel more independent and confident.
Older adults with mobility issues would be more willing to go out if it’s not an exhausting ordeal and they don’t feel like a burden on others.
Getting around more easily also helps seniors stay connected with family and friends by preventing the negative effects of isolation.
6 Simple Automobile Aids For Seniors can Make Car Travel More Convenient
1. $25 HandyBar Auto Standing Aid
This removable handle fits securely into almost all driver- or passenger-side car doors.
It’s a non-slip grip hand-hold that lets seniors boost themselves up and out of the car. It can handle up to 350 pounds.
2. $25 HealthSmart 360 Degree Swivel Seat Cushion
This 15″ diameter cushion has a base that swivels. Seniors can sit down in the car’s seat, then easily swivel to pull their legs in.
This eliminates the struggle to move their legs into the car while turning their body. It also makes it much easier for the person who’s helping them into the car.
Tip: If the car has bucket seats, measure to see if the swivel cushion will fit. Or, place a towel on the car’s seat to fill the gap and allow the cushion to sit flat.
3. $8 Seat Buckle Guard
Sometimes, people with Alzheimer’s or dementia may unbuckle their seatbelts while you’re driving. That’s dangerous!
This seat buckle guard prevents that from happening. When the ride is over, push a key in through the slots to release the buckle.
This guard prevents seniors from unbuckling themselves in the event of an accident or emergency. But it may be worth the risk if they frequently unbuckle themselves while you’re driving, which is a more immediate danger.
4. $13 Silicone Buckle Release Tool, Unbuckle Assistant
For people with arthritis or limited hand and thumb strength, unbuckling the seat belt can be frustrating. This aid makes it easier to undo a standard seat belt.
This only works on buckles where the button is on the flat surface. You push down on it while holding the buckle, and the rubber tip will push the button in.
5. $19 TEOEBGO 14 Inch Seat Belt Pads Cover Extender
With limited mobility, it can be challenging to buckle the seatbelt. This seat belt extender makes it easier to reach and buckle up properly for a safe car ride.
Tip: Make sure to get the correctly sized extender to fit your car’s buckle.
6. $9 Seat Belt Grabber Handle Pack of 2
For those with arthritis or limited shoulder and torso mobility, it’s hard to reach up and pull the seatbelt down.
This reacher attaches to the seat belt and extends the handle. The reviews are mixed, but it seems to work well for many people.
FYI: The picture above isn’t of this product, but it shows how it’s used.
Final Thoughts About Auto Aids for Seniors
Equipping a car with these simple, low-cost aids is one of the easiest ways to protect your loved one’s independence and ensure their continued joy in driving or riding as a passenger. It’s not about making a significant modification, but about adding thoughtful touches that reduce strain and boost confidence behind the wheel.
By taking these small steps, you’re doing more than just making travel easier—you’re helping to keep them safely connected to the people and places they love, ensuring many more miles of happy journeys ahead.
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All prices quoted were checked shortly before publication. Prices and availability change often and might not match what is found online. This article contains affiliate links & we may earn a small commission, at no additional cost to you. For more information, see How We Make Money.
About the Author
Connie is the founder of DailyCaring.com and was a hands-on caregiver for her grandmother for 20 years. (Grandma made it to 101 years old!) She knows how challenging, overwhelming, and all-consuming caring for an older adult can be. She also understands the importance of support, especially in the form of practical solutions, valuable resources, and self-care tips.
handy bar auto standing aid Please advise stockist bunbury w a
So glad you find the Handy Bar useful! To find it in your local area, try a Google search for “handy bar [your town]” or call local stores to see if they carry it.