Drivers with Age-Related Disabilties
Seniors are the fastest growing segment of the driving population. For most people, driving is part of life. Most seniors drive every week if not every day and enjoy driving as much as they rely on it.
"My children and grandchildren are all so far away"
"It's my freedom, my independence"
"I've got to drive; I take my wife to her doctor’s appointments"
"I love driving. It’s just something I've always wanted to do.”
No matter what a person’s age, being able to drive means independence. Challenges, however, exist for older drivers. Those over the age of 75 have a 3.5 times higher crash rate per miles driven compared to 35 to 44 year olds. Given that by the year 2040 there will be almost double the number of older drivers in Canada, this concern is likely to increase in the coming years.
Many people find their abilities change as they get older, especially if they have health problems, and these changes may affect the way they drive.
The SE Driver Assessment and Training team can conduct an assessment to determine if age-related changes are impacting a person’s ability to drive. If appropriate, recommendations can be made in order to sharpen the driver’s skill and abilities.
According to the Canada Safety Council, the main factors in collisions involving older drivers are slow response, not seeing a sign, car, or pedestrian, and interaction with other drivers.
Older drivers
- often will have long records of safe driving which may give them a sense of confidence about their driving abilities
- tend to have more health changes that may impact driving
- take an average of nine medications daily which may affect how they perform cognitively and physically
- are increasingly likely to be involved in accidents as they age
- have a greater chance of being seriously injured
If in an accident if you feel you would benefit from an assessment, a refresh of your driving skills or wish to receive more information about the most up to date assistive technologies for you and your vehicle please fill out the contact form.
Contact & Information Form
If you, a loved one or a caregiver are concerned about your ability to drive or wish to GET MORE INFORMATION, please fill out this form.
Contact & Information Form