A new study from UNSW has found driving lessons can improve older people’s performance and safety on the road. Slower reflexes, a shrinking peripheral vision and reduced capacity to react to changing conditions make driving riskier for older Australians, researchers say.
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00:00Should older Australians have to take driving lessons to keep their licence?
00:04Age-related factors like slower reflexes, shrinking peripheral vision and reduced capacity
00:09to react to fast-moving or changing conditions make driving riskier.
00:13But a new study from the University of New South Wales suggests driving lessons can help
00:18improve older drivers' road skills and safety, challenging the all-or-nothing approach of
00:22licence removal.
00:23I think that there is a benefit for people to start thinking about their driving and
00:29perhaps go and have a refresher driving lesson.
00:32Some states like New South Wales, Queensland and the ACT require annual medical assessments
00:37from the age of 75, while others like Tassie, Victoria and the Northern Territory rely on
00:43seniors to self-assess their capabilities.
00:46A new website has also been launched from the study to support seniors and keep them
00:50on the road longer while driving safer.