American society is undergoing a major demographic transformation. A larger proportion of the population is becoming older and an increasing number of older individuals are licensed to drive and they drive more than their age cohorts a decade ago. This trend poses a problem because older drivers have higher vehicle crash rates. The objectives of this study were to identify risk factors that increase older drivers' involvement in crashes, and factors that influence older drivers' decisions on driving. This report summarises results of cross-sectional/time series analyses of a panel database that was developed using the data from the Iowa 65+ Rural Health Study. Factors that significantly contribute to older drivers' decisions to stop driving or to change their driving behaviour, and factors that increase the likelihood of older drivers being involved in vehicle crashes are reported. Future research needs are presented. (Author/publisher)
Abstract