OLDER DRIVERS: A CLOSER LOOK

Abstract

Much of the research literature on driving performance among older adults is limited to survey or questionnaire information. In this study, we examined older adults’ driving performance in simulated driving situations. The study was designed to explore cognitive and / or motor skills used by older drivers and to determine whether gender differences exist in overall driving performance. Twenty‐four older adults (11 men and 13 women) with a mean age of 72.9 years participated. The study was conducted in two phases: (a) assessing the older drivers’ cognitive and decision‐making capabilities (written test) on 15 driving scenarios presented on videotape and (b) examining the drivers’ motor responses by using the same 15 driving scenarios and having drivers execute their responses in driver simulation units. Older drivers performed better during driver simulation than on written tests. Men and women differed in overall driving habits and abilities. Although there were no differences between men and women in age, educational level, visual acuity, or years driving, men performed better than women during driver simulation, drove more miles per year, and did more of their driving on the highway. Educational and research implications as well as implications for older drivers are presented.