Changes in self-reported driving behaviour following attendance at a mature driver education program

A telephone survey was conducted with 367 drivers aged 55–94 years who had voluntarily attended the 55 Alive/Mature Driving education program one-and-one-half to four years prior. 55 Alive/Mature Driving is a classroom delivered program that presents information on the effects of aging on driving, general rules of the road and road signs, and strategies for reducing driving risk. The survey contained both open-ended and closed questions and asked respondents to recall what they had learned in the course, and how their driving behaviour had changed as a result of attending. Results showed that 20% of respondents, especially older men, were urged to attend the course by a spouse or other. Types of information recalled from the course fell into seven main categories: need for increased vigilance; road rules and road signs; visual skills; self-awareness; maneuvers; safe speed; and space margins. Three quarters of participants said they changed their driving habits as a result of attending the course including: increased awareness and visual skills; changes in attitude; improved speed and space margins; avoidance of hazards; using more caution; obeying road rules; and improved vehicle maneuvers. Men were more likely to report their driving skills had improved since taking the course, and older men reported significantly higher mean comfort scores with their driving. Comments about the course’s delivery underscored the importance of providing opportunities to interact, an environment where participants felt safe in expressing their views, and an opportunity to practice.