Best cars for seniors with arthritis may not be flashy and attractive, but they are easy to use and reliable in the long run. As we age, our bodies undergo changes, and many seniors experience the discomfort of arthritis. Living with arthritis can make everyday tasks more challenging, and driving is no exception. For seniors with arthritis, finding a car that is both comfortable and easy to use is essential. In this article from humanhealthmag, we’ll explore the key features to look for in a vehicle for seniors with arthritis and provide recommendations for the best cars on the market for those with arthritis.
Key Features to Consider When Buying an Arthritis-Friendly Cars
Before we introduce best cars for seniors with arthritis and talk about buying an arthritis-friendly cars, we asked you one qustion: how to be confident driving? When shopping for a car, individuals with arthritis should prioritize features that promote comfort, ease of use, and safety. Here are some key features to consider:
- Adjustable Seats: Look for seats that can be adjusted in multiple ways, including height, lumbar support, and tilt. This allows you to find the most comfortable driving position, reducing strain on your joints.
- Power-Assisted Features: Power windows, locks, and mirrors can significantly reduce the effort required to operate your vehicle.
- Easy-to-Grip Steering Wheel: A steering wheel with a comfortable grip and good tactile feedback can make driving less painful.
- Intuitive Controls: Simple, easy-to-use controls for climate control, audio, and other functions can minimize frustration and discomfort.
- Voice Command Systems: Voice-activated controls allow you to operate various functions without physically reaching for buttons or knobs.
- Wide-Opening Doors: Wider doors make it easier to get in and out of the car, reducing strain on your hips and knees.
- Backup Camera: A backup camera can help you avoid accidents and reduce the need for complex maneuvers.
- Blind Spot Monitoring: This feature alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots, enhancing safety and reducing stress.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Adaptive cruise control automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you, reducing the need for constant footwork.
- Lane Departure Warning: This system alerts you if you unintentionally drift out of your lane, helping to prevent accidents.
- Automatic Emergency Braking: This feature can automatically apply the brakes to avoid a collision, especially useful in situations where your reaction time may be slowed.
By carefully considering these features, individuals with arthritis can find a car that makes driving more comfortable, convenient, and safe. Do you know the pros and cons of retesting elderly drivers?
5 Best Cars for Seniors with Arthritis
When it comes to choosing the ideal & best car for seniors with arthritis that meets their specific needs, there are few options available.
1- Toyota Camry
If you’re looking to buy a Japanese car, you can also count on the Toyota Camry as one of the best cars for seniors with arthritis. It’s also a great looking car, which is why it’s a popular choice among buyers. The ninth-generation Toyota Camry (2025 model) has just been introduced. While it lacks a V6 engine, the 232-horsepower hybrid powertrain delivers solid performance and impressive fuel economy. The cabin has also undergone a lot of improvements, with a cleaner layout and typical build quality. Like previous Camry, the new model is spacious and comfortable, with enough traditional controls to make various functions easy to use. Starting at $28,400, the new Camry is probably the best sedan for seniors.
2- Honda CR-V
The sixth-generation Honda CR-V features an angular design that gives it a more stylish look. As a compact crossover, the CR-V promises a good ride height while offering sedan-like driving dynamics, which older buyers should appreciate. These features are not counting the spacious interior, dual-zone automatic climate control and high-quality equipment. The 2025 Honda CR-V starts at $30,100.
3– Honda Accord
The latest Honda Accord is a strong contender in the midsize sedan segment, with a fresh interior and updated technology, including voice-controlled climate control. Top-of-the-line models get a 10-way power driver’s seat and heated front passenger seats. The Honda Sensing safety suite is standard on all trims, and options include a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four or a 2.0-liter version with dual-motor hybrid specs. The 2024 Honda Accord starts at $27,895, making it one of the most comfortable & best cars for seniors with arthritis.
4- Hyundai Sonata
South Korea introduces the Hyundai Sonata as its representative in the midsize sedan segment. The Sonata is offered with a modern look for the elderly. The interior comfortably seats five passengers with a choice of fabric upholstery or higher quality leather trim. The available 10.3-inch touchscreen makes navigation messages easy to see and understand. A set of three combustion engines and two hybrid drives are provided for this car.
5- Kia Telluride
In 2019, Kia and Hyundai unveiled their latest crossovers, the Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride. The two cars used the same platform and had similar technical and driving characteristics. However, Kia was somewhat more successful than Hyundai and gained more popularity, especially in the North American region. Today, the Kia Telluride is one of the main players in the American crossover market, and Kia also assembles this product at its production site in the US, in the state of Georgia.
Concluding Remarks
Choosing the best cars for seniors with arthritis is a key factor in maintaining their independence and comfort. Cars that have special features such as adjustable seats, soft steering wheels, and advanced driver assistance systems can make driving much easier for these individuals.
Considering the variety of car models and brands in the market, choosing the most suitable option may be challenging. Therefore, it is recommended to take various test drives before purchasing to choose a car that suits your needs and budget. Ultimately, a suitable car not only allows seniors struggling with arthritis to reach their destinations with ease, but also helps maintain their physical and mental health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Hybrid or Electric Cars More Suitable for Elderly People with Arthritis?
Hybrid and electric cars can be good options for seniors with arthritis because of their smoother acceleration and reduced vibration. Also, these vehicles usually have more advanced driver assistance systems.
Are Certain Car Models Recommended for Seniors with Arthritis?
Some car models are better suited for seniors with arthritis due to their ergonomic design, more amenities, and higher safety. Some of these models include the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Focus, and some crossover SUVs with a suitable ride height.
Is It Possible to Install Additional Equipment to Improve Car Comfort for the Elderly with Arthritis?
Yes, there are many accessories that can improve the comfort of driving for seniors with arthritis. These include larger pedals, additional handholds, support cushions, and special seats. But before installing any accessories, consult a professional to make sure that they are compatible with your vehicle and will not compromise your safety.