Feasibility of implementing a community based pilot senior driving screening and referral program

Background/Purpose Many states do not have a standard procedure to screen the driving ability of senior drivers and provide referrals for corrective action. The purpose of this study was to test the feasibility of implementing a community senior driver screening and referral program.

Methods We recruited a convenience sample of senior drivers (age 65+) at 6 community senior centers in suburban Connecticut, Spring 2010. A 31 item survey collected demographic information, driving history, and self-reported vision, physical fitness and attention problems. Participants completed a 30 minute computer program that identified impairments in 8 areas and provided recommendations to address impairments. We provided referrals and a post survey to measure program satisfaction. A 2 week follow-up determined intent to address impairments.

Results One hundred twelve participants completed the program. Mean age 77 years, 78% female, 90% white, 87% retired, 40% college degree or higher, and 62% drove between 1,000 - 10,000 miles annually. 23% reported problems reading highway/street signs or seeing other vehicles at night (27%), 18% reported trouble looking over shoulder to change lanes, 48% avoided driving at night, or in unfamiliar places (33%), 7% reported a friend/family expressed concern about their driving. 7% had no impairments, 82% mild impairments, 46% serious impairments; 78% were given referrals. At follow-up, 28% reported intent to complete referrals. Most participants (94%) would recommend the program to family/friends.

Conclusions This pilot study was feasible to implement. A larger study is needed to confirm results with a larger, more diverse pool of senior drivers.