Clinical and research issues on older drivers: future directions

This article serves as an overview of both clinical and research issues relevant to enhancing the safety of older drivers. Even though the vast majority of older drivers are safe on the road, physicians and other health care providers need tools and mechanisms for identifying those older drivers who are a safety risk because of cognitive, sensory, and/or other medical impairments. Research in this field tends to have either of two related goals: (1) to help older drivers stay on the road as long as it is safely possible to do so, through identifying and rehabilitating those with impaired skills, and (2) to identify transportation alternatives to driving for those older adults faced with driving cessation. Driving is discussed as an activity of daily living within the broader context of mobility, and as such is tied to quality of life.