DRIVERS over 85 are recognising the need to change their driving patterns to suit their changing abilities, new research has shown.
The George Institute injury division deputy director Lisa Keay said the study of older drivers in Sydney, which used in-vehicle monitoring and GPS receivers to track their movement, showed they were managing their own risks behind the wheel.
She said today's baby boomers were among the first generations of life-long drivers, with people aged 85 plus the fastest growing group of licence holders.
"We found that many older drivers are changing their behaviour to suit their changing circumstances," she said.
"So whether it's permanent physical impairment like poor eyesight or a temporary health-related change, the older drivers are recognising a need to alter their driving patterns.
"There are still people who are driving with poorer function, but they are driving less."
The study of 380 drivers aged 75-94 found that the average distance travelled in one week was 104.9km, and in a week-long period the average trip was 5km in local and surrounding areas.
The average longest trip participants took was 11km.
Drivers with a lower level of function drove fewer kilometres and took shorter trips closer to home.
Lead author Kristy Coxon said the research showed there was a need for more transport options so that when seniors took themselves off the road they did not become isolated from their community.
