Needs and Problems of Older Drivers and Pedestrians: An Exploratory Study With Teaching/Learning Implications

Population shifts changing this country from a nation of the young to a nation of the old are producing a traffic profile and problems different from any previously addressed by those concerned with transportation and traffic safety. This paper reviews the demographics related to drivers and pedestrians 55 years and over, identifying and addressing their special traffic problems and needs. Implications of alcohol and other drug use by this age group on traffic problems are reviewed. Physical, cognitive, psychological, and environmental factors that influence learning and performance are addressed as they relate to traffic safety programs, to automobile design, and to highway configurations and signing. Implications for education address driver training and retraining and drug programs. Implications for the role of industry and government include vehicle design, highway communication, and licensing criteria and standards.