University of Wollongong: Driving decisions made easier for older drivers

The NSW Government and University of Wollongong have released a new resource to help empower older adults to make informed decisions when it comes to driving.

Launched as part of NSW Seniors Festival, the Driving and staying independent: A decision aid for older drivers resource, takes older drivers through five steps to assist with making decisions about whether to continue, modify or retire from driving.

Minister for Seniors Mark Coure said the Aid will go a long way to supporting their decision-making as well as assist family members to start conversations with older adults around driving.

“Some 20 per cent of all driver licences in NSW are held by people aged between 60 and 74,” Mr Coure said.

“I know how important driving is for every one of them to have this licence for their independence, especially when it comes to running errands, attending appointments or even meeting friends.

“This Aid will greatly assist them in navigating from one stage of life to another, where their driving needs and skills change.”

Professor Victoria Traynor, Director of Aged Dementia Health Education and Research (ADHERe) at the University of Wollongong’s School of Nursing, said the Aid builds on work undertaken by the team over the past decade.

“This involved consulting with expert advisory groups, including older drivers themselves, medical practitioners, family members of older drivers and road safety officers,” Professor Traynor said.

“Navigating conversations about driving can often be complex and emotive. The Aid aims to help provide a simple process for drivers, their families and carers to start a dialogue and make decisions that are helpful for their individual situations.

“Retiring from driving suddenly can be a difficult situation for older drivers to accept, the Aid aims to open the conversation and offer solutions ahead of time.”