Vision and Driving Self‐Restriction in Older Adults

Abstract

Older adults with early changes in spatial vision function and depth perception appear to recognize their limitations and restrict their driving even if they do not acknowledge the visual impairment as the cause for restriction. Poor visual attention, a risk factor for crashes, may not be recognized. Additional studies of driving self-restriction in relation to risk factors for crashes in older adults may help refine this strategy of reducing driving-related injury and death.

Risk factors for road traffic accidents among drivers of public institutions in Ibadan, Nigeria

“…As people age, visual functions deteriorate due to increase in the incidence of age-related ocular conditions such as cataract, macular degeneration, open-angle glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy [6,14,15]. Thus there are 2 accident peaks in the life of an individual, in the young when one is prone to risk taking behaviour and in the elderly when visual impairment prevents adequate visual function.…”

Restricted licensing among older drivers in Iowa

“…So it appears that license restrictions reinforced decisions already made by some drivers. Previous studies have shown that many older drivers limit their driving to situations and environments they perceive as less challenging Charlton, Oxley, Fildes, & Les, 2003;Lyman, McGwin, & Sims, 2001;Stutts, 1998;Vance, Roenker, & Cissell, 2006;West et al, 2003).…”

Through the Looking Glass

“…32,40 Although it can be difficult for those with glaucoma who are unaware of the extent of their disease to accept their limitations, 75 research has also found that once aware of visual limitations, drivers will modify their driving habits. 76,77 A major concern for older drivers and in particular, those with glaucoma is losing the ability to drive. 22,61,78 Older drivers who restrict their driving or have surrendered their licenses report increased loneliness, isolation, and higher levels of depressive symptoms [79][80][81][82] resulting in diminished quality of life.…”