Getting Around: Alternatives for Seniors who can no longer drive

Part of living a long life includes the distinct possibility that at some point driving will no longer be an option. Therefore, considering future mobility options is an important aspect of "successful" aging. However, many older drivers are reluctant to give up the keys, and families find that it is extremely difficult to discuss safe driving or the need to stop driving with their aging family members, in part because there are few alternatives to driving oneself in many communities.

Mobility, or "getting around," is vital to the health, independence, and well-being of all Americans. As the Baby Boomer population ages, there will be huge number of individuals who are no longer willing or able to drive. In the best interests of their older populations, communities are seeking strategies to assist their aging residents to remain mobile as they transition from driving.

Following the 2003 Santa Monica tragedy, in which an elderly man crashed into a crowded farmers' market, killing 10 people and injuring 63 others, public attention focused on the relationship between driving and aging more than ever before.

The AAA Foundation commissioned the Center for Health Aging (CHA) to conduct a pilot program designed to help older residents in eight sites in Southern California with the transition from driving. Entitled Getting Around: Alternatives for Seniors Who No Longer Drive, it consists of a transportation support and information network and a public education campaign. With a focus on counseling and mobility planning, it is intended to specifically address the needs of those seniors who will no longer drive, rather than those who can still prolong their safe driving years. The report will be available online at the beginning of April.

The AAA Foundation also commissioned the development of a video, Getting Around that examines the difficult transition associated with driving cessation. Getting Around is scheduled to air on various PBS stations across the country in April 2007 just prior to “Older American Month.” This new video is presently available on DVD along with “Older and Wiser Driver” video. Visit www.aaafoundation.org to order or call 1-800-305-SAFE. Bulk order pricing is available.

A new website was developed that showcases this project’s research and provides other pertinent information related to senior mobility. The site is now available by visiting www.getting-around.org.