Are you looking for a new compact car, but you are grieving from arthritis? Arthritis can make driving irritated if you are in the wrong car. Some people have arthritis or equivalent conditions that provoke joint pain, disabilities, mobility issues, and inflammation. 

There are many details to think about when looking for cars for seniors. It can be tough to search out which SUVs are best for you. To discover your comfortable cars, You’ve arrived at the right place.

We have rounded up a type of vehicle needed for older drivers comfortable driving. We also go over the various add-ons and adaptations that vehicle you need.

What is Arthritis In Seniors?

Arthritis in seniors refers to the inflammation of one or more joints in individuals who are typically 65 years of age or older. Arthritis is a broad term that encompasses a range of conditions affecting the joints, and it is one of the most common health issues experienced by older adults. 

The two primary types of arthritis that commonly affect seniors are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Difficulties Commonly Encountered By Seniors With Arthritis When Driving.

Seniors with arthritis commonly face various challenges when driving, influencing their overall driving experience and road safety. Arthritis-induced joint pain and stiffness can compromise the ability to maintain a comfortable and flexible driving posture, affecting steering wheel grip and control operation. 

Limited range of motion, especially in the neck and shoulders, may impede seniors’ capacity to check blind spots and mirrors effectively. Difficulty in manipulating controls such as the gear shift and turn signal arises from arthritis-related limitations in hand and finger dexterity. 

Additionally, the chronic pain and inflammation associated with arthritis contribute to fatigue and reduced endurance during extended periods of driving, impacting concentration and reaction time. 

The process of getting in and out of the vehicle becomes challenging due to joint discomfort, particularly for those driving larger vehicles or those with lower seat heights. Reaction time may be further compromised, making it challenging for seniors to respond promptly to unexpected road situations. 

Vehicle adaptability, weather sensitivity, anxiety, and the physical demands of regular vehicle maintenance also contribute to the array of difficulties seniors with arthritis encounter while driving. 

Addressing these challenges involves adapting the driving environment, considering assistive devices, and exploring alternative transportation options to ensure the safety and well-being of seniors with arthritis on the road.

How To Choose Cars For Seniors With Arthritis?

Choosing cars for seniors with arthritis involves considering various factors to ensure comfort, safety, and ease of use. Here are key considerations for selecting vehicles that accommodate the specific needs of seniors dealing with arthritis:

• Comfortable Seating:

Opt for cars with supportive and adjustable seats. Look for models with power-adjustable seats, lumbar support, and ample cushioning to provide a comfortable driving position, reducing strain on arthritic joints.

• Ease of Entry and Exit:

Choose vehicles with a higher seat height that facilitates easier entry and exit. Sedans or crossover SUVs often have more accessible entry points than low-profile cars.

• Automatic Transmission:

Consider vehicles equipped with automatic transmission to eliminate the need for frequent shifting, reducing stress on arthritic hands and joints.

• Power Steering:

Power steering can significantly lighten the effort required to turn the steering wheel, making it easier for seniors with arthritis to maneuver the vehicle comfortably.

• Adaptive Features:

Look for adaptive features such as keyless entry, push-button ignition, and touch-sensitive controls. These technologies minimize the physical effort needed to operate the vehicle.

• Large, Clear Gauges and Displays:

Choose cars with large, easy-to-read gauges and displays to enhance visibility and reduce eye strain. Clear instrumentation is crucial for seniors with arthritis who may experience discomfort or limited mobility in the neck.

• Simple Control Layout:

Vehicles with straightforward and intuitive control layouts are preferable. This includes easily reachable buttons, straightforward climate control systems, and user-friendly infotainment interfaces.

• Comfortable Suspension:

Opt for cars with a comfortable and well-tuned suspension system to minimize the impact of bumps and road irregularities, providing a smoother ride for individuals with arthritis.

Benefits of Having Right Car

• Broad-opening doors that push the car easier to get in and out off.
• An ample cabin will give you the space you need to get relaxing and be comfortable.
• Height adjustable driver seats mean you can sit up excellently.
• A car with an automated controls gearbox that is easy to access.
• The power steering wheel is comfortable to control.
• Grasp handles in valuable places that help entry and exit.
• Height-adjustable seats.
• An electronic parking brake with electric windows
• Supple, cushioned ride and Cavernous trunk

Top 11 Picks: Easy To Drive Cars

These cars from a wide variety of features have numerous vibrant safety systems and always help senior drivers.

1. 2020 Chevrolet Impala
2. 2024 Subaru Forester
3. 2024 Toyota Camry
4. 2024 Jeep Grand CHEROKEE
5. 2024 Honda Pilot
6. 2024 Kia Soul
7. 2024 Vauxhall Grandland X
8. 2024 Audi Q2
9. 2024 Honda Odyssey
10. 2024 Volvo XC60
11. 2024 Fiat 500L

1. 2020 Chevrolet Impala

MSRP: Start From $31,620

The Chevrolet Impala is a full-size car built by Chevrolet for the model years 1958 to 2020. The Impala was Chevrolet’s famous flagship passenger car and was among the better-selling American-made automobiles in the USA. It is perfect for easy access for older drivers and offers comfort and assist features at a relatively lower price point.

Impala is a full-size sedan that comes standard with a potent 3.6 L  V6 engine, a spacious interior, and a velvety-smooth ride. Other standard features of Chevrolet like 305 horsepower, 3,682 to 3,867 lbs curb weight, gain 0-60 mph in 6 seconds, and 19 MPEG in the city / 28 MPEG on the highway.

Modern Features Of 2020 Chevrolet Impala

• Lane keeps assisting with departure warnings.
• Forward collision alert system.
• Equip with automatic emergency braking.
• Surround Vision, which is most valuable when parking.
• Always compatible with Android Auto, 
• Apple Car Play, and Amazon Alexa.
• Extremely user-friendly controls and easy to access.
• Heated driver seats and steering wheel.
• 8-way power-adjustable front seat layout.
• Features with tilting and telescoping steering column

2. 2024 Subaru Forester

MSRP: Start From $27,095

The Subaru has an additional interior with power-adjustable front seats. Wherever you are sitting, you can appreciate the available panoramic moonroof overhead. The company offers an extra-wide rear gate opening that is best for senior drivers.

Pre-Collision Braking Can enable slow and get your Forester to a complete stop, if essential. It includes features like Advanced Automatic Collision Notification, Ground clearance: 8.7 inches, 1,500 lbs towing capacity, 3,449 to 3,589 LBS curb weight, Enhanced Roadside Assistance, SOS Emergency Assistance, and more.

Subaru developed the Driver Focus Distraction Mitigation System, one of the first technologies of its kind. Arranged for new and experienced drivers, it works jointly with Eye Sight to help detect distracted or drowsy driving. If the driver’s concentration strays from the road for too long, Driver Focus can provide visual and auditory alerts to bring engagement back to the road.

Standard Features Of Subaru Forester

• Driver Focus Distraction Mitigation system that is helpful for tired drivers concentrated on the road.
• Blind-Spot Detection and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, 
• Rear-Vision Camera and Reverse Automatic Braking.
• Equip with Android Auto and Apple Car Play.
• Touchscreen with voice navigation.
• Ample interior with power-adjustable front seats.
• Power rear gate with automatic close.
• Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering
• Pre-Collision Throttle Management
• Lane Departure and Sway Warning

3. 2024 Toyota Camry

MSRP: Start From $26,420

Toyota Camry provides buyers with affordable access to hybrid technology. If you are looking to switch to more environmentally-friendly tech, the Camry is the perfect choice to start. It features good seats, steering, and visibility, making it the best car for seniors with arthritis.

Toyota is a full-fledged modern luxury SUV with high ground clearance. You can experience a ride with plenty of passengers, additional cargo space, robust engine alternatives, and superior safety systems.

As per IIHS, the Toyota model has a maximum rating of Good. This rating indicates that it is the easiest and safest car for senior people. The standard features of the Camry have a 2.5 L 4-cylinder, 3.5 L V6 powerful engine, 202 to 301 hp, 3,310 to 3,595 lbs curb weight, and MPEG Up to 28 city / 39 highway.

Key Features Of full-fledged Toyota Camry

• Automatic High Beams
• Dynamic Radar Adaptive Cruise Control
• Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assistance
• High fuel economy from the four-cylinder engine
• Plenty of cabin and cargo space
• Birds Eye View Camera With Perimeter Scan.
• Intelligent Clearance Sonar With Rear Cross-Traffic Braking.
• Pre-Collision System With Pedestrian Detection.
• Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.
• Lane Departure Alert With Steering Assist.

4. 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee

MSRP: Starts From $40,035

The iconic Grand Cherokee is a must to consider if you are contemplating buying an SUV. Aside from modern features, the remote vehicle controls and safety features make the Jeep Grand Cherokee is right choice for you. It is a sophisticated SUV that carries itself with rugged elegance and heavy power.

As we talk about configurations, the iconic Grand Cherokee offers a 3.6L V6 powerful engine, 293 to 707 hp, 4,513 to 5,356 lbs curb weight, 3,500 to 7,200 lbs of towing capacity, Dual-zone climate control, 8-speed automatic transmission, and MPEG Up to 19 city / 26 highway.

Technological Features Of Jeep Grand Cherokee

• A luxurious, extremely spacious interior.
• Parallel and Perpendicular Park Assist
• Rain-Sensing Windshield Wipers
• Lane Keep Assist, Forward-Collision Warning.
• Remote vehicle controls.
• SOS system for roadside assistance.
• Driver seat with power adjustment.
• Tilting the steering wheel.
• Advanced touchscreen system.
• Smartphone compatibility Android Auto integration 
• Apple Car play and Amazon Alexa functionality.
• Available 4G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot.

5. 2024 Honda Pilot

MSRP: Starts From $37,090

The 2024 Honda Pilot is a major player in the midsize 3-row crossover and is most likely suitable best cars for seniors with arthritis. It competes with rivals like the Hyundai Palisade, Toyota Highlander, Mazda CX-9, and Volkswagen Atlas.

 There are many specialties in the 2024 Pilot’s popularity. The cabin is roomy and adaptable, able to seat up to 8 dwellers or deliver up to 109.2 cubic feet of cargo space depending on trim level. The 2024 Pilot has a roomy cabin with more room space than a Toyota Highlander. The new Honda sophisticated torque-vectoring quality in its all-wheel-drive system.

The superior features of the Honda pilot 2024 like a refined 3.5-liter V6 engine, healthy 280 horsepower, 3,982 to 4,321 LBS curb weight, 3,500 LBS of towing capacity, and MPEG Up to 20 city / 27 highway.

Important Safety & Advanced Features Of 2024 Honda Pilot

• A roomy and versatile cabin
• Standard V6 power
• 9-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters
• Dual-zone automatic climate control 
• Platinum White Pearl paint
• Blind-spot monitoring
• LED daytime running lights/low beams/tail lights
• Terrain-management system (AWD)
• One-touch power moonroof
• Heated steering wheel

6. 2024 Kia Soul

MSRP: Starts From $20,190

In day-to-day driving, the Kia provides a serene and comfortable experience, which is particularly beneficial for seniors with arthritis who generally don’t require high specifications, especially in terms of engine performance. 

Lower-tier trims suffice for their needs. One noteworthy feature is the upright driving position, thoughtfully designed to support the driver’s posture. The 2024 Kia Soul boasts an exceptionally spacious interior for a hatchback, attributed to its semi-SUV body style. 

This design choice contributes to the generous space inside and enhances over-the-shoulder visibility. However, it’s essential to note that the trunk’s size is average, prompting potential users who frequently carry mobility aids or medical equipment to conduct fitting tests.

The vehicle excels in both safety and practicality aspects, featuring amenities such as a reversing camera, adjustable steering column, stability management, brake-force distribution, and more. These attributes make the Kia a well-rounded choice for seniors seeking a comfortable, safe, and practical driving experience.

7. 2024 Vauxhall Grandland X

MSRP: Starts From $36,660

Vauxhall has a rich history of producing practical, spacious, and user-friendly vehicles, exemplified by the Grandland X, a mid-size crossover SUV. The elevated seating position ensures an upright posture inside the car, and achieving comfort is made easy with the Active Ergonomic Seats, offering adjustment in 18 different ways.

The 2024 Grandland X is designed for accessibility, featuring wide-opening doors for easy entry. Higher-grade models include the convenience of an electric tailgate, accessible either through a button on the key fob or a foot wave underneath the rear bumper. This eliminates the need to bend or lift a heavy boot lid to access the cargo area.

Available in both petrol and diesel automatic versions, the Grandland X combines practicality and comfort, making it a versatile choice for drivers seeking a mid-size crossover SUV that delivers on both functionality and ease of use.

8. 2024 Audi Q2

MSRP: Starts From $35,585

Demonstrating that practicality and comfort need not compromise eye-catching style, the Audi Q2 stands out as a compact luxury SUV with numerous features beneficial for individuals dealing with arthritis.

Typical of crossovers, the 2024 Audi Q2 offers a raised seating position compared to family hatchbacks, providing not only a commanding view of the road but also facilitating comfortable entry and exit from the vehicle.

Sporty S Line models are equipped with grippy steering wheels that are easy to hold, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics. These models boast an appealing exterior as well.

For added convenience, automatic versions of the Audi Q2 are available with a choice of either petrol or diesel engines, providing flexibility for different preferences and driving needs.

9. 2024 Honda Odyssey

MSRP: Starts From $38,240

The Honda Odyssey boasts a potent V-6 engine, ensuring a swift acceleration that elder drivers with a penchant for speed will appreciate. However, its appeal extends beyond a refined ride, offering numerous benefits for seniors dealing with arthritis. The van surprises drivers with its solid handling, making them almost forget they are behind the wheel of a three-row van.

Accommodating up to eight adults, the 2024 Honda Odyssey prioritizes comfort with wide-opening doors. For those with bulky cargo and equipment, the flexible configuration of the seats in the back ensures that nothing impedes your way. Notably, the third row easily folds down, adding to the van’s versatility.

Recent upgrades to the set of passive and active safety technologies further enhance the Honda Odyssey’s appeal. Even prior to these updates, the van held a commendable 5-star safety rating, providing added peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike.

10. 2024 Volvo XC60

MSRP: Starts From $46,900

The Volvo XC60 stands out for its reliability and robust build. Despite the car’s size and weight, which might typically result in heavy steering, the automaker has implemented numerous adjustments to ensure responsive and agile handling. 

Given the new model’s relatively higher price, opting for a used version becomes a sensible choice. The interior of the 2024 Volvo aligns with its minimalist exterior, featuring a design with few buttons that avoids clutter, making controls more manageable for older individuals. 

In the higher-spec version, remote vehicle controls are available, offering a practical solution for seniors with arthritis by eliminating the need to reach across the panel or manipulate buttons.

One of the standout safety features of the Volvo XC60 is its blind spot monitoring system, adding an extra layer of security for drivers and contributing to the overall appeal of this reliable and thoughtfully designed vehicle.

11. 2024 Fiat 500L

MSRP: Starts From $34,095

If ample leg and headroom are top priorities, especially for drivers with arthritis, the 2024 Fiat 500L presents a compelling case as an ideal car. Its distinctively boxy proportions contribute to exceptional roominess, and the generously sized doors enhance accessibility. 

While sharing style elements with its city car counterpart, the Fiat 500L offers a distinctly different driving experience. Seating is upright and comfortable, with controls that are both user-friendly and well-organized.

The spacious boot makes it easy to stow away any necessary mobility aids, and the car features steering wheel controls for the Bluetooth hands-free system and stereo. Additionally, convenient grab handles assist in entering and exiting the vehicle.

For those considering transmission options, keep an eye out for DuaLogic models, Fiat’s term for two-pedal automated manual versions, providing an added layer of convenience for drivers. The 2024 Fiat 500L combines practicality with comfort, making it a noteworthy choice for those prioritizing spacious and accessible driving experiences.

FAQ

Conclusion

Selecting the most suitable cars is a tricky task for car lovers. Some old drivers give preference to extra space for softening and comfortable driving. These best cars for seniors with arthritis have features like height-adjustable seats,  automated controls gearbox, and wide-opening doors.