Ring: Sept. 5, 2002: Senior drivers

Seniors are the fastest-growing segment of the driving population. Over the next two decades the number of seniors on the road will double, which means more and more road accidents will involve older drivers. In an effort to help local seniors drive safely, the CRD is asking them to examine their driving skills.

That’s why, as part of a four-month study partially funded by the CRD, Dr. Holly Tuokko and her research team in UVic’s centre on aging spent the summer administering a questionnaire and an information program to people aged 55 and above, most of whom live in Sidney. Of the CRD communities, Sidney has the largest percentage of seniors at 33 per cent of its population.

The Older And Wiser Driver allows respondents to self-evaluate their driving skills by responding to statements like: “I signal and check to the rear when I change lanes” and “Intersections bother me because there is so much to watch for from all directions.”

After they’ve completed the questionnaire, the seniors discuss driving issues related to the survey with one of the researchers. A high score may indicate the need for a driver refresher course or a medical examination.

Studies like this are essential because when it comes to deciding when it’s time to stop driving—well, that’s not something people plan for or like to talk about. Once the topic is raised, however, senior drivers can ask for the help they need. They can also take steps to improve their driving skills, if necessary.

Preliminary results show that while some drivers said they wouldn’t change their behaviour, most of the respondents said that they would talk to a doctor about their medical issues and refer other seniors to the study. The majority of seniors interviewed also said that participating in the study would help them to discuss the issue with their families and friends.

The $11, 000 study is funded by the Capital Regional District Traffic Safety Commission and a UVic internal faculty research grant.