Statistics have shown that effects of advanced age such as changes in vision and response time may adversely affect elderly drivers' ability to drive safely. As a matter of fact, many doctors discuss the issue of stopping driving with their older patients as a precaution for the safety of theirs as well as the public's.
Do you think older drivers have to give up driving when they reach a certain age?
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ReplyDeleteHi Jolaine,
ReplyDeletethanks for the kind message! Good luck with your acceptance letter :)
Hi, I appreciate these MMI questions.
ReplyDeleteAs a precaution, I would advice my elderly patients to have their eye exam yearly. I understand that most of the elderly people here in the U.S live alone, with their spouse or live in a nursing home. Since most of them depend on only themselves to do chores or any activity which necessitates driving, I believe that it would be inconsiderate to force them to completely stop driving at a certain age. Proper screening/vision analysis will enable those who still have good visual acuity to maintain their rights. For those who have failed these tests, I believe that it would be fair to restrict them from the activity for the sake of their safety and the safety of others on the road. Along the restriction though, a program to assist the elderly who are unable to drive should be enforced. Programs like shuttles, grocery delivery service, etc...
Any thoughts on the matter?
Very thoughtful response. I think your approach addresses this issue very thoroughly, discussing the criteria for suspending the driver's license (based on ability to remain safe on the road, not age) and providing a good solution for those who cannot drive safely. Also, you showed good empathy and understood the importance of driving for the average senior.
ReplyDeleteI would also point out that being able to drive may mean even more than just being able to get around town. For some people, driving means independence. Taking that away could affect an elderly person's sense of self worth, which should be carefully supported both practically and emotionally.
Forcibly taking away a license would be intruding on patient autonomy. So the regulation to have tests (eye test, shoulder check test) is a good compromise.
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