Citation

Nef T, Bieri R, Müri RM, Mosimann UP. Exp. Aging Res. 2015; 41(3): 325-360.

Affiliation

a Gerontechnology and Rehabilitation Group and ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research , University of Bern , Bern , Switzerland.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2015, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/0361073X.2015.1021650

PMID

25978449

Abstract

UNLABELLED: Background/Study Context: Older drivers are at increased risk of becoming involved in car crashes. Contrary to well-studied illness-related factors contributing to crash risk, the non-illness-related factors that can influence safety of older drivers are underresearched.

METHODS: Here, the authors review the literature on non-illness-related factors influencing driving in people over age 60. We identified six safety-relevant factors: road infrastructure, vehicle characteristics, traffic-related knowledge, accuracy of self-awareness, personality traits, and self-restricted driving.

RESULTS: The literature suggests that vehicle preference, the quality of traffic-related knowledge, the location and time of traffic exposure, and personality traits should all be taken into account when assessing fitness-to-drive in older drivers. Studies indicate that self-rating of driving skills does not reliably predict fitness-to-drive.

CONCLUSIONS: Most factors discussed are adaptable or accessible to training and collectively may have the potential to increase traffic safety for older drivers and other road users.

Language: en