Transport plays a role in the health and wellbeing of older people. This study examines patterns of changed mobility and driving cessation in older adults. It takes into consideration factors such as gender and marital status, and the reasons given for ceasing to drive in later life. It highlights the advantages to society of older drivers continuing to drive.
There has been a shift in transport thinking from a previous misplaced emphasis on the reduced ability of older drivers to a realisation that a lack of transport access is likely to pose a significant threat to wellbeing and health in later life. Older drivers are not only a safe group of drivers, but also their crash rates and fatalities continue to decline despite the levels of fragility that increase the risk of fatality compared to younger people. The impact of driving cessation can cause depression, and premature admission to nursing homes and even death. Not being able to drive a car, for whatever reason, is associated with restricted transport mobility for older people. Using a personal car as a driver is a key element in ensuring mobility and wellbeing in later life. It is the primary mode of personal vehicle transport, even in countries with well-developed public transport.
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Source: European Commission
