Older Adults’ Motivations for Participating in a “Tune-Up” of Their Driving Skills: A Multi-Stakeholder Analysis

Abstract

Driver training has the potential to keep older adults safe behind-the-wheel for longer, yet there is limited evidence describing factors that influence their willingness to participate in training. Focus groups with community-dwelling older drivers ( n = 23; 70–90 years) and semi-structured interviews with driving instructors ( n = 6) and occupational therapists ( n = 5) were conducted to identify these factors. Qualitative descriptive analyses highlighted how self-awareness of behind-the-wheel abilities in later life can influence an older adult’s motivation to participate in driver training, as well as their willingness to discuss their behaviors. Collision-involvement and near-misses prompted participants to reflect on their driving abilities and their openness to feedback. Participants’ preferences for learning contexts that use a strengths-based approach and validate the driving experience of older drivers, while providing feedback on behind-the-wheel performance, were raised. Older driver training initiatives that consider the needs of the aging population in their design can promote road safety and community mobility.

Low Vision and Driving

“…29,30 During the planning for the state BTS driving training program, a review of multiple policies, license requirements, and use of bioptics in other states was an important 34 Developing novel strategies or improving existing training approaches is crucial to facilitate success for older adults with low vision who desire to return to driving. 27 Collaboration among providers, stakeholders, and patients promotes better fitness to drive opportunities. In addition, promoting resources including specialized driver training and use of a BTS or alternatives to driving 23 for the older driver with vision loss is of benefit.…”

“…For example, vision profiles differ and meeting individual needs will continue to be paramount to a program success 34. Developing novel strategies or improving existing training approaches is crucial to facilitate success for older adults with low vision who desire to return to driving 27…”

“…10,14,24 In addition, training with vision-related devices such as prescription BTS holds promise for maintaining driving independence in later life. 27 Team collaboration facilitates using multiple training approaches to match the client's capacity regarding age-related functional decline in physical, cognitive, and visual-perceptual abilities with fitness to drive. Use of rehabilitative services that implement compensatory strategies to promote safe driving is integral to the process of keeping older adults safe, mobile, and integrated in their own communities.…”

“…The severity of the visual impairment matters, and more research is needed to clarify the effects on driving ability. The value of maintaining driver and public safety implies addressing behind-the-wheel behaviors to facilitate respective licensure policies 27…”

“…The value of maintaining driver and public safety implies addressing behind-the-wheel behaviors to facilitate respective licensure policies. 27 Health care providers should have knowledge of current driving laws and related rules regarding adaptive low-vision driving options, including guidelines on the use of assistive devices. This knowledge is the first step to promote the best practice delivery of community mobility independence for older adults.…”