Consequences of Driving Reduction or Cessation for Older Adults

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to understand the adverse consequences of driving reduction or cessation among elderly adults. A comprehensive literature search was conducted for studies that ( a) included information on driving by an elderly population, ( b) included results from a qualitative or quantitative (or both) study of the elderly and driving cessation, and ( c) provided information to evaluate consequences surrounding driving reduction or cessation. The selected subjects of the studies included men and women over the age of 55 years. Driving reduction or cessation is associated with a number of adverse consequences, including reduced activity out of the home and decreased life satisfaction. However, determining causality of the associations is difficult because of unidentified third variables (such as health). Understanding the adverse consequences will aid researchers and policy makers to develop better strategies to help people anticipate and prepare for reduced driving and to develop and improve transportation alternatives.