Driving is a vital part of independence for many older Australians, but physical and cognitive changes that come with age can impact driving safety. To address this, a new initiative by UNSW Sydney and Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA) offers tailored solutions for older drivers, including a website, Ageing Well on the Road, designed to help them navigate state-specific licensing rules and maintain their driving skills longer.
Scientia Professor Kaarin Anstey, a leading expert in cognitive ageing, spearheaded the Better Drive Study to explore whether tailored interventions could improve older drivers’ safety. The study involved over-65 participants divided into groups for refresher courses, video feedback, and targeted driving lessons. Early results indicate a significant reduction in errors among drivers who received personalised feedback, transforming unsafe drivers into safer ones.
While older drivers face unique challenges, many errors stem from long-standing bad habits rather than age-related decline. Practical interventions, like addressing blind spot checks and lane discipline, can enhance safety and confidence behind the wheel.
For drivers with early-stage dementia, licensing decisions are handled on a case-by-case basis by general practitioners and occupational therapists. Regulations vary across Australian states, from annual medical assessments in New South Wales to self-reported conditions in Victoria.
Professor Anstey advocates for proactive approaches, such as midlife driving check-ins, to normalise skill updates and reduce stigma. Results from the Better Drive Study are expected in 2025, potentially shaping how older drivers stay active and independent on the road. For more information, visit the Ageing Well on the Road website through Age Well Australia.