Psychomotor Mobility and the Elderly Driver

Declines in motor ability and reaction time are noted with aging, although the effect of these changes on actual driving performance needs further elucidation.

Abstract

In summary, declines in motor ability and reaction time are noted with aging, although the effect of these changes on actual driving performance needs further elucidation. It may be possible to compensate partially for some of these declines through physical and behavioral training. Attention to the physical, cognitive, and sensory capacities of older individuals in the design of vehicles and roadways also may be beneficial. Considerable work still needs to be done to adequately assess the changes that occur with aging in driving ability, what factors influence these changes and their potential modification, as well as the costs of any interventions planned.