Many older drivers, who have virtually been abandoned by their immediate family and cannot be reached by sparse or at times non-existent governmental social services, view their driving privileges and their motor vehicle as the last vestige of independence. This independence is difficult to relinquish. L aw enforcement can perform an integral part in assessing older driver capability. The law enforcement community must work with established civilian and government agencies to develop alternatives and solutions to the mobility needs of older persons. The law enforcement community can collaborate with other agencies, providing materials, training, information programs and self assessment techniques for the older driver.
Law enforcement can be positive in their approach.
Law enforcement agencies can take the lead and initiate actions which promote remedies. They can conduct educational town meetings at retirement communities, create older driver assistance groups, and provide a sincere commitment to the community in addressing the concerns of the older driver. The purpose of this pamphlet is to provide law enforcement officers cues for determining the safe operational needs of older drivers. Older drivers face a multitude of medical and non-medical barriers that may affect their safe operation of a motor vehicle. Understanding these cues will assist the law enforcement officer in assessing the continued safe operational needs of the older drivers that they may encounter.