Through a review of the literature on driving models, on models of everyday competence, and on older drivers, we developed a novel model of older drivers. Our proposed Driving as an Everyday Competence (DEC) model, which incorporates both driving competence and performance, was reviewed and critiqued by a group of experts. Our model suggests that the level of driving competence is determined by the interaction between individual and environment and is moderated by beliefs and awareness, leading to strategic level decisions regarding driving behaviors. Decisions made at the strategic, tactical, and operational levels must be viewed within the social/physical environmental context if driving performance is to be fully understood. The DEC model is a comprehensive model of older drivers and provides a foundation for the advancement of research on older drivers. (Author/publisher)
Abstract