Date Presented 04/03/2025
This study examines the cognitive and behavioral aspects of elderly drivers. By understanding their driving behaviors and the level of conflict about continuing or stopping driving, OTs may promote community participation and safety.
Primary Author and Speaker: Orit Fisher
Additional Authors and Speakers: Yocheved Morgenstern, Adina Maeir
PURPOSE: Self-management of driving in old age is essential for sustained community participation, yet age-related physiological and psychological changes pose safety driving risks. Elderly drivers need to adapt their driving behaviors, which may lead to reducing or stopping driving. There is limited research on the characteristics of this population and the trajectory that may lead to driving cessation. This study aims to describe the cognitive and behavioral characteristics of elderly drivers.
DESIGN: A descriptive cross-sectional study including a sample of 166 elderly drivers (Mage = 72.9, SD = 5.67, Range = 65-91).
METHOD: This study utilized the main following tools: (a) a Driving History Questionnaire addressing avoidance of specific risky driving situations (e.g., driving in the rain, at night) and (b) a Decisional Conflict Scale assessing the level of conflict regarding continuing or stopping driving (scores 0–100).
RESULTS: In this study, 60.8% of participants avoided at least one driving situation, primarily peak hours, nighttime, and long-distance driving. Women reported higher avoidance rates, and older participants (over 75) also showed increased avoidance. No correlation was found between avoidance and mental health, but a low significant negative correlation with frailty was identified (rs = -.25, p = .001). The average level of conflict was low (M = 19.2, SD = 15.3), indicating that most drivers were satisfied with their decision to continue driving. No age or gender effects were found regarding the level of conflict. However, a low significant correlation was found between mental health and the level of conflict (rs = .16, p = .037).
CONCLUSIONS: A deep understanding of driving management in old age is important for examining the challenges faced by elderly drivers. The findings of this study may contribute to a better understanding of their needs, providing professional guidance for continued community participation alongside changes in driving function.
References
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