Casualty statistics for car accidents in the UK are presented for all age groups but focusing on the older people. The older population is expected to increase from over 6 million to over 9 million by 2031. The percentage of this age group holding a driving licence has also increased. Detailed statistics are presented for Gloucestershire accidents involving older drivers. The percentage of accidents caused by driver error increases with age, with failure to give way at junctions a particular problem. It is noted that there is no direct correspondence between biological age and age in years. Factors which lead to a decrease in safety include: decrease in the speed of processing; the discrepancy between objectively measured abilities and self rated ability increases with age; normal ageing of the eye; and health and medication. Lack of procedural knowledge by doctors is noted. A flow chart illustrating the SAGE (Safer Driving with Age) screening system is given. This paper consists of slides from a computer presentation.
Abstract