AAA Northeast has created an online resource called Key Timing to provide older drivers and their caregivers helpful guidance to prepare for driving retirement. Available at AAA.com/KeyTiming, the site contains an e-learning module so caregivers (often the adult children or a family member) can prepare to address a conversation about driving cessation or future mobility planning. This resource includes:
- General driving assessment tools
- State specific information on driver evaluation
- State specific transportation resources
- Workbook to develop a mobility plan
-
- Data and statistics about senior driving
- Advice for caregivers to address conversation about driving retirement
Driving becomes more challenging as we age due to physical and neurological changes. Estimates predict that by 2030 the number of citizens aged 65 and older in the United States will more than double and, according to the 2015 Massachusetts Healthy Aging Data Report, the 65 and older population is projected to increase from 15% in 2015 to 21% in 2030. The population aged 85 and over is experiencing the fastest rate of growth in the Commonwealth.
By 2035, over 30% of the population will be over age 60 in virtually every municipality in Massachusetts. Elder Affairs has committed to develop plans and services for the growing older population including transportation access and availability. In the Massachusetts 2017 Statewide Needs Assessment, transportation services were identified as the greatest need according to older adults, caregivers, and stakeholders, especially for medical appointments.
“Older and disabled adults without access to convenient and affordable transportation services can feel stranded. Research from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety confirms that older drivers from a rural area without local transportation programs to assist in mobility rate the prospect of driving cessation as more impactful on their lives. This perception may influence their decision to continue driving despite health decline, therefore advanced planning is imperative,” said Mary Maguire, AAA Northeast Director of Public and Legislative Affairs. “Key Timing can offer older adults and their caregivers much needed information to plan for and address their transportation needs after they had retired from driving.”
For more information, visit www.AAA.com/KeyTiming.