Older drivers, mobility and safety

Summary

Senior citizens are currently the fastest-growing demographic group in the majority of countries. Moreover, older drivers (65+) are the fastest-growing segment of the active driving population. Rather than posing a threat to others, senior drivers are those who are themselves at higher risk on roads. Drivers’ physical and mental capabilities, their driving behaviour, and the level of the risk of accidents change as people grow older, although age in itself has no direct correlation with the driver’s performance. Numerous elements of the existing traffic system, including traffic signalling and control, the system of how driver’s licences are being obtained (or suspended), and car designs, do not seem to accommodate older drivers’ needs.

KEYWORDS:
traffic psychology – older drivers – traffic safety – psychological assessment of fitness to drive – mobility