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Abstract
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PURPOSE: Describe the issue of older drivers and safety using the four-step public health approach.
METHODS: Public health problems in general and motor vehicle injury specifically, can benefit from a structured approach to prevention. Moving from a position of discovery, (1) define the problem, (2) identify risk and protective factors, (3) develop and test prevention strategies, to delivery, (4) ensure widespread adoption of demonstrated effective strategies.
RESULTS: Public health burden can be measured in a variety of ways, the number of deaths, injuries, disabilities or years of potential life lost, as well as death or injury rates. Additionally, by disparities in these measures by groups defined by age, race, sex, road user type (driver, pedestrian), etc. These measures can place older driver safety in the context of other causes of death in this age group. Risk and protective factors such as multiple medication use and self-restriction of driving further our understanding of the issue and guide choices of prevention strategies. When strategies are found effective in reducing risk or burden, the expected preventable fraction can be calculated and the expected lives saved can be estimated.
CONCLUSIONS: The goals of public health in the area of older driver safety include reducing deaths and injuries among older drivers and other road users while maintaining safe mobility. Motor vehicle-related deaths and injuries are largely preventable with the adoption of effective strategies for the driver, vehicle and roadway. |