To drive or not to drive, that isn't the question—the meaning of self-regulation among older drivers

Abstract

Problem This research examines older drivers and how they rationalize and cope with their own changing psychological and physical functioning vis-à-vis self-regulation and driving. Method A national survey was mailed to a sample of drivers over the age of 50. An overall response rate of 53.11% was achieved, with 3,824 valid responses returned. This paper discusses the qualitative findings of the open-ended questions in this survey. Results A rich, multidimensional description of self-regulation emerged from the data. Driving self-regulation was not simply a checklist of behaviors performed but a combination of attitudes and behaviors, including important social and psychological processes and automobile attributes. Household composition played an important role in determining what one's options were for getting around and how serious they were in enforcing self-regulation behaviors. Discussion & Summary As a society, we must realize the importance of driving in maintaining independence, feelings of self-worth, and being connected to life and society. This research presents the qualitative findings of a nationwide survey of drivers over the age of 50. The results revealed that older drivers define self-regulation as much more than the changes in behaviors due to declining health and ability. The older adults in our research strongly emphasized the psychological processes surrounding independence, self-worth, remaining connected to life and society, and what role the automobile plays. Household composition impacted decisions related to self-regulation. For instance, those from a two-person household were more willing to let their partner drive or share in the driving, while those who lived alone were less likely to self-regulate their driving. Impact on Industry Education programs targeting older adults need to be expanded to include not only the behavioral components of self-regulation, but also the psychological factors that play an equally meaningful role. Legislators devising policy programs need to reconsider what are viable transportation options for the older adult.