“Our mission is to implement a strategic plan to increase the safety, access and mobility for aging road users and eliminate fatalities and reduce serious injuries,” said Gail Holley, the research manager for the program.
Through efforts such as community workshops and events, educational materials and outreach campaigns, the coalition reaches those older drivers. They even point to resources available to them such as Florida’s Guide for Aging Drivers and brochures on companies such as Uber and Lyft if they are no longer driving.
“We provide resources that can help people continue to safely drive and stay connected to the people important to them and to the activities they love long after they have transitioned from driving,” Holley said.
While driving skills typically drop off with age, Holley points out that each person is different and isn’t impacted in the same way.
“Most people can see a steady decline in some of the skills important for driving as they get older,” Holley said. “However, the changes of aging do not affect all drivers at the same age or in the same way. Specific skills such as vision, memory, strength, flexibility and quick reaction time decline as we age, but how soon this happens and to what degree can vary from person to person.”
Vision is arguably the most vital skill and is something drivers should beware of more as they get older.
“Ninety percent of what a driver needs to know to make safe driving choices comes from vision,” Holley said. Vision decline is the most important loss for aging drivers. Aging eyes need more light to help separate roadway features, or more time to recover from glare due to headline or sun exposure.”
While certain skills do decline with aging, it doesn’t mean there aren’t opportunities to slow that decline.
“People can remain proactive about their safe driving skills by taking a driver safety course,” Holley said. “Classes are available in person or online. There is also a potential cost reduction on car insurance after taking a Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicle approved course.”
There are measures people can take to stay sharp that have nothing to do with driving but have an impact on their ability to drive a car safely.
“It is important for people of all ages to get around easily to maintain a healthy lifestyle that allows them to stay connected to their community. Knowing the keys to achieve safe mobility for life, which are understand, be proactive and plan, can help older adults remain active and independent, even beyond the driver’s seat.”
A survey was conducted in the state last year by the coalition asking people how they would get around if they no longer had the ability to drive.
“Almost 30 percent of participants responded they would get around their community by rides with family members and 15 percent said they would get rides with friends,” Holley said. “However, relying on family and friends is not always possible. Identifying and trying available transportation options ahead of time will help Florida residents remain independent and active for life.”
The coalition intends to continue doing all it can to keep older drivers informed and safe.
“The overall goal is to improving aging road user safety and mobility in Florida, and we will continue to develop and distribute educational materials, launch outreach campaigns and conduct community events to help improve the safety, access and mobility of Florida’s aging road users.”