Programs Focus on Older Drivers, Safety

Monday, June 16, 2003
(2:29 PM)
By Lauran Neergaard
Associated Press Writer

The question is how to spot a problem before a crash, something that usually falls to worried relatives. Few states require more frequent license renewals or eye exams for the elderly. The AMA guide will urge doctors to ask patients and their relatives about driving problems, watch for possible red flags and hunt medical treatments to help them drive as long as possible.

WASHINGTON -- AP
First, the elderly woman tried to drive between a delivery van and two people walking on a narrow Florida street. Then, busy chatting, she didn't notice a car stopping in front of her. At a stop sign, she pulled out in front of a truck.

This was a test to see if it was time for the 75-year-old to give up her keys - and when driving specialist Susan Pierce emerged from the car, it was to break bad news.

``She stood up and literally pounded her fist on the table and said, 'I am not giving up my driver's license and not giving up my home,''' before storming out, recalls Pierce, an occupational therapist certified to assess driving skills. ``That's probably the toughest part of my job, when I know I have to say 'no.'''

Losing the ability to drive can be a traumatic experience of aging - and knowing when it's time to quit can be immensely difficult. Tests in doctors' offices aren't completely reliable. And nationwide there are only 300 specialists like Pierce certified to perform road tests and offer techniques to help some seniors stay behind the wheel a few more years.

Now medical and traffic groups are beginning some major programs to address the issue:

The American Medical Association will issue guidelines in July to help doctors tell when older patients' driving is questionable and get them help to stay on the road as long as it is safe. This fall, the AMA also will run a program to train doctors about medical fitness to drive.
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2003 © The Associated Press.

Dan