Can Your Older Patients Drive Safely?

NHTSA - Behavioral Safety Researchhttps://doi.org/10.1097/01.NAJ.0000524519.45105.8d2017PDFTech ReportStaplin, LorenLococo, Kathy H.Mastromatto, TiaSifrit, Kathy J.Trazzera, Kathleen M.TransAnalytics, LLCUnited States. National Highway Traffic Safety AdministrationWolters KluwerAmerican Journal of NursingUnited StatesDriver rehabilitationAged driversAge-related functional declineDriving healthDriving safetyInjury preventionMotor vehicle accidentsPreventive medicineSifrit, Kathy J.American Journal of Nursing, Vol. 117, No. 9In many areas of the world, driving is an essential part of life and for reasons of comfort, convenience, and security remains the primary mode of transportation among older adults. Both normal aging and diseases that are more prevalent in advanced age can substantially reduce older drivers\u2019 functional abilities, elevating their risk of involvement in motor vehicle accidents and serious injury or death. Identifying and intervening with older drivers at increased crash risk is an important aspect of preventive medicine. The authors discuss the specific driving risks adults face as they age and how nurses can raise older patients\u2019 awareness of these risks. They also discuss the importance of connecting older adults to community resources that may help them continue driving safely for a longer period or find alternative transportation options.129