Enhancing Senior’s Driving Performance

Given the increasing number of older drivers as our population ages, attention has focused on the potential traffic safety implications of this trend. Much research has focused on identifying unsafe drivers whose driving should be restricted; however, less is known about whether or how years of safe driving can be extended, and oftentimes, being able to drive is critical to maintaining mobility and independence. 

The AAA Foundation commissioned Yale University to investigate whether an educational program comprising both classroom-based and behind-the-wheel training could improve the driving performance of a group of seniors who showed some signs of diminished driving ability. For this project, Yale University conducted a randomized, controlled trial of the program, measuring its impact on written tests of driving knowledge and on-road driving performance. The project is in its final stages and the report will be available shortly.