Stepping out of the driver’s seat: a strategic approach to older driver community programs delivered by Metro South East Region

The transition from driver to non-driver may be abrupt, or it may be a more smooth and planned process over many years of safe driving. A smooth transition will often involve a range of stakeholders that may include, the older driver, their friends and families, health professionals, the local municipal council, and community care and advice organisations. The report of the Road Safety Committee on the Inquiry into Road Safety for Older Road Users makes specific recommendations on the need for education and publicity strategies to address the needs of all of these stakeholder groups, and to assist older drivers with the transition from driving. The purpose of this paper is to explore options for a community based program to support older drivers in this transition process. In developing such a program due regard must be taken of, the size of the issue relative to other road safety issues, the costs involved, the complex nature of the decision processes, and the variety of stakeholder groups involved. (a) For the covering entry of this conference, please see ITRD abstract no. E214930.