The physical challenge ...

In order to drive safely, we need to integrate physical, visual and cognitive functions.

Although there appear to be some notable exceptions in all fields, elderly marathon runners, scientists, artists, musicians, etc., it’s an undeniable fact that as we get older our ability to function begins to deteriorate. This deterioration is both physical and mental.

As long as the deterioration is not serious, many older people will continue to drive safely; their safe driving can possibly be attributed to the fact that their skills have been consolidated into a learned and instinctive pattern of driving.

While many older drivers will often readily accept physical limitations and take steps to overcome any problems that they become aware of, deterioration in cognitive functioning can be harder to accept or deal with.

Accidents involving elderly drivers often occur at junctions, particularly when turning right – this suggests that, at least in this context, judgement and decision making skills suffer with age.

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