Self-regulation of driving by older persons

Physiological and neurological changes associated with aging can have a significant impact on driving ability. This study explored adaptation strategies used by older drivers to maintain independence in driving. Data was collected through a survey administered to 30 older drivers living in northern Florida. Subjects reported using self-regulation strategies including avoidance of specific driving situations, altering the time-of-day in which they drove, not driving in certain weather conditions, avoiding major highways and interstates, reducing their speed of driving, and reducing the amount of time they spent driving. This study supports previous research on elder driving and provides further evidence that many older drivers alter their driving habits and patterns so that they can continue to drive safely.