November 14th 2024.
As we age, it's important for older drivers to regularly test and improve their driving skills to ensure the safety of Australian roads. According to research, a significant number of accidents involve drivers aged 50 and above. To address this issue, the University of New South Wales and neuroscience institute NeuRA have launched a new website aimed at helping older drivers stay safe and stay on the road for longer.
Professor Kaarin Anstey, an expert in cognitive aging at UNSW, explained the importance of later-in-life driving lessons as our population continues to grow and age. "We want people to continue driving for as long as it's safe for them to do so," she said. "That's why this website is so important - to empower older drivers, their family members, and health professionals."
Anstey and her team have been studying the issue of older drivers for over 20 years, and their research has shown that motor vehicle accidents are the second leading cause of injury in older adults. This concern has become even more pressing in the wake of recent devastating crashes across Australia.
In addition to the website, Anstey's research, called The Better Drive Study, looked at whether older drivers who participated in a refresher course were less likely to cause accidents or put themselves in harm's way. The study followed drivers aged over 65 for 12 months to see if their driving skills improved after the course.
"We've found that a lot of people obtained their driver's license in a different era, when cars, roads, and rules were all very different," Anstey explained. "We believe that everyone - not just older drivers - could benefit from refreshing their driving skills."
The pilot study revealed that many older drivers have developed bad habits over time, such as not checking blind spots or keeping up with changes in road rules. However, those who participated in the refresher course showed significant improvements in their driving safety.
Furthermore, the lessons can also help identify if a person should consider giving up their license. "Sometimes we come across drivers who are not safe on the road or have a hidden impairment," Anstey added.
9News spoke with several older drivers in Victoria about the idea of taking refresher lessons. While some believed it was a beneficial idea, others were hesitant. "I think it's a good idea overall, as some older drivers may need to brush up on their skills, but there are also many who are still good drivers," one woman said. Another added, "I don't particularly want to go through the hassle, but for the safety of everyone on the road, it's a good thing."
The website, Aging Well on the Road, launched this week and provides information and advice for older drivers. It also helps navigate the different rules and regulations across different states. For example, in Victoria, drivers must self-report any medical conditions, while in New South Wales, drivers over the age of 85 must undergo annual medical assessments and practical driving tests.
Anstey emphasized the importance of considering whether one's driving skills need updating. "Most people don't naturally ask themselves, 'Do I need to refresh my driving skills?'" she said. "That's why this website is for the general public, and the medical fitness to drive manual from Austroads provides guidance to health practitioners about the requirements for driving with medical conditions."
The results of The Better Drive Study will be released in 2025. In the meantime, be sure to download the 9News app to stay up-to-date on all the latest breaking news, sports, politics, and weather. With notifications sent straight to your smartphone, you'll always be in the know. The app is available for both Apple and Android devices.
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