Between 1997 and 2001, a study was conducted by the University of Manchester of 1,993 drivers aged 50 and over, with the following objectives: • to identify simple cognitive tests which could be used to predict an individual’s current level of driving competence, and to examine the value of changes in cognitive ability for predicting driving competence; and • to assess the usefulness of measures of personality, depression, and stress in predicting driving performance. To collect information on individuals’ self-reported driving difficulties, and the way in which they are dealt with, together with their perceptions of their driving competence and of confidence while driving. This study involved three stages; a questionnaire completed by 1,993 drivers, laboratory tests completed by between 508 and 630 drivers, and observed drives on suburban roads completed by 200 drivers. The questionnaire covered personal details; driving history and habits, including accidents during the past five years; opinions and perceptions of driving and possible procedures for controlling the re-issue of licences to older drivers; and a medical assessment using the Cornell Medical Index. The laboratory tests were carried out to obtain objective measures for the physical, sensory and cognitive abilities of a sample of elderly drivers. The cognitive tests included intelligence tests and a test of theoretical knowledge about driving. The sensory tests included visual acuity, peripheral vision, hearing, and four computer tests assessing the types of perceptual skills necessary for safe driving. Psychomotor tests included grip strength, flexibility and balance. (Author/publisher)
Abstract