Community Involvement in Older Driver Safety

As the population ages, the safety of older drivers becomes an increasing concern for communities across the nation. Older adults often have years of driving experience, but age-related factors like slower reaction times, vision impairment, and reduced mobility can impact their ability to drive safely. Community involvement in older driver safety plays a critical role in ensuring the safety of older drivers, from education to providing alternate transportation options.

The Need for Community Support

Older drivers are generally more cautious and less likely to engage in risky behaviors like speeding or driving under the influence, but they are more vulnerable in crashes due to physical frailty. As people age, their driving skills can diminish, making it essential for communities to step in and support safe driving practices through education, awareness, and the creation of alternative transportation systems.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2020, there were 6,549 fatalities involving older drivers aged 65 and older, representing 17% of all traffic deaths. In Colorado, older adults make up a significant portion of licensed drivers, and this number is only expected to grow. Colorado’s Department of Transportation (CDOT) reports that by 2030, one in four drivers in the state will be over the age of 65. This underscores the urgent need for community programs that prioritize the safety and well-being of older drivers.

National and Colorado Stats on Older Drivers

Nationally, about 46 million people are aged 65 and older, and this number is projected to nearly double by 2060. https://www.prb.org/resources/fact-sheet-aging-in-the-united-states/
Older adults are involved in 18% of all fatal crashes in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Colorado drivers aged 65+ involved in approximately 13% of all traffic fatalities: Colorado Department of Transportation reports that older adults account for around 13% of traffic fatalities in the state, with higher rates in rural areas due to the unique driving conditions. https://www.prb.org/resources/fact-sheet-aging-in-the-united-states/
By 2050, Colorado’s older adult population is expected to reach 1.5 million, which calls for significant changes in infrastructure and transportation systems to accommodate their needs. https://acl.gov/sites/default/files/Profile%20of%20OA/2021%20Profile%20of%20OA/2021ProfileOlderAmericans_508.pdf

The Role of Education of Community Involvement in Older Driver Safety

Communities can play a proactive role by educating older adults on safe driving practices and the potential risks associated with aging behind the wheel. Offering classes on how to adapt driving habits, such as avoiding night driving or heavy traffic, can help seniors remain confident and safe. Additionally, many states, including Colorado, offer driver refresher courses for older adults. These courses can help seniors update their knowledge of the rules of the road and teach them how to use newer technology, such as in-car navigation systems and backup cameras, which can enhance driving safety.

Alternate Methods of Transportation

While driving represents independence for many older adults, there are times when it’s safer for them to transition to alternative forms of transportation. Communities need to offer and promote accessible, affordable transportation options to ensure older adults maintain their mobility and independence, even when they’re no longer able to drive.

Public Transit Options

Local governments and communities should invest in public transit systems that cater to the needs of older adults. Offering discounted or free fares for seniors can encourage them to use public transportation instead of driving. In Colorado, some communities have already implemented these programs. The “Ride Free Transit” program in Boulder offers free bus rides for seniors, which has significantly helped older residents maintain their independence without the risks associated with driving.

Volunteer Driver Programs Help Community Involvement in Older Driver Safety

Communities can also establish volunteer driver programs where younger, licensed individuals provide transportation to seniors for essential activities like medical appointments, grocery shopping, and social events. Programs like “A Little Help” in Denver offer older adults rides from vetted volunteers, ensuring they can remain active and engaged in the community without needing to drive themselves.

Ride-share and On-Demand Services

Ridesharing apps such as Uber and Lyft offer on-demand services that can be particularly helpful for older adults who still want to remain mobile but can no longer drive safely. Some communities have developed senior-friendly rideshare programs with drivers specifically trained to work with older adults, ensuring a safer and more comfortable experience.

How Community Involvement in Older Driver Safety

Communities can take several practical steps to improve the safety and mobility of older drivers:

Educational Workshops: Offering workshops on driving safety, defensive driving techniques, and vehicle technology to help older adults stay safe on the road.
Driver Assessments: Collaborating with healthcare providers to offer driving assessments for older adults to evaluate their ability to drive safely and recommend appropriate measures.
Promote Alternatives: Encouraging older adults to explore alternative transportation options, whether through public transit, ridesharing, or community-based volunteer programs.
Infrastructure Improvements: Advocating for safer roads, better signage, improved lighting, and more pedestrian-friendly areas to enhance road safety for all drivers, particularly seniors.