A shocking impact

As a consequence of the ageing of Australia's population, there will be greater numbers of older drivers in coming decades. While most older drivers continue to drive safely, the ageing process can lead to physical and cognitive changes. This has led to concern among some policy makers about ways in which older persons’ access and mobility can be safely maintained. Unfortunately, the car‐dependency which has ensued from both our lifestyles and our settlement patterns, makes die issue of lessened driving capabilities a significant one, particularly at the individual level. This paper draws upon Australian and overseas literature as well as the findings from a qualitative survey undertaken by the Victorian Department of Infrastructure in conjunction with Swinburne University. This survey highlights the significant emotional impact which car relinquishment can have for older people. In fact, the cost of giving up the car may be so high in social and psychological terms that fear and denial may get in the way of any objective assessment of driving ability or safety concerns. Policymakers need to understand this dilemma for older drivers in order to ensure that peoples’ driving lives are either extended safely, or that appropriate transport alternatives are provided allowing them to maintain their lifestyle and social networks without the need for them to drive. Q: If you were unable to continue driving, what kinds of impacts might this have on your life? A: It would be drastic. You don't think about it. You hop in your car and you can go. Female, aged 67 yean, outer eastern suburbs, Melbourne A: A shocking impact. Female, aged 85 years, Mornington Peninsula, Victoria