Examination of the precaution adoption process model in understanding older drivers' behaviour: An explanatory study

Self-regulation of driving has been proposed as an effective strategy to keep older adults driving safely for longer. Little is known of what influences older adults’ decision to adopt self-regulatory driving behaviours. Hassan and colleagues (2015) developed an initial model of self-regulation using the Precaution Adoption Process Model (PAPM) as a theoretical framework. The present study aims to build on the previous research by investigating whether a sample of older drivers can accurately be assigned to the PAPM stages of change. Further, the study aims to identify the psychosocial and environmental factors associated with different stages of the PAPM and those that predict the decision to adopt self-regulatory behaviour. Logistic regression analysis indicated that self-rated driving confidence, family feedback, self-rated quality of driving and driving relinquishment expectation were significant predictors of PAPM stages. Findings from this research have practical and theoretical applications for improving our understanding of the self-regulatory behaviours of older drivers