DEVELOPMENT OF AN ASSESSMENT INSTRUMENT FOR THE CLINICAL EVALUATION OF ELDERLY DRIVERS

This paper investigates factors that put older drivers at increased risk for automobile crashes and moving violations. A test battery was developed that encompassed a range of visual, cognitive, and physical abilities potentially relevant to driving safety. This battery included relatively simple measures designed to be utilized in a clinician's office and took approximately 90 minutes to complete. It was administered to 133 community-residing adults aged 72 and older. Bivariate and sequential multiple logistic regression analyses showed 3 factors were independently associated with a history of crashes, moving violations, and being stopped by police, adjusting for driving frequency. These included poor near acuity, limited neck range of motion, and limited visual attention. Of individuals with no factors present, 21% had reported an event over the prior 6 years; of those with 1 factor present, 45% had reported an event; and of those with 2 or 3 factors present, 87% had reported an event. Findings suggest that it may be possible to identify those at risk for driving problems using simple tests.

  • Corporate Authors:

    American Association of Retired Persons

    Andrus Foundation, 601 E Street, NW
    Washington, DC  United States  20049
  • Publication Date: 1996

Language

  • English

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 00792538
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Report/Paper Numbers: Final Report
  • Files: TRIS
  • Created Date: May 4 2003 12:00AM