The issue of transportation in an aging society transcends national boundaries. In fact, across the world, two-thirds of all older adults who have ever lived are alive today. We are moving on many fronts to improve the way the transportation system meets the very special needs of this population group. Based on input from the seminars, workshops, and focus groups I previously mentioned, as well as the international conference and the most recent meeting of the Transportation Research Board, the Department is working to establish a National Agenda to guide future efforts to meet the needs of an aging society. In most areas, it is quite in line with the AARP's own transportation agenda, recognizing similar needs for the elderly, and identifying actions that must be undertaken While on the subject of public beliefs and ideas, I also want to mention the need to educate the general public on the facts regarding driving safety and the elderly.
Older drivers exhibit the lowest crash rate of any age group per vehicle mile traveled.
This is because older drivers tend to drive less after retirement. Most older drivers also limit their risk by avoiding rush hour traffic, night driving and speeding. And as their driving ability declines, most retire from driving gradually and responsibly. However, when older drivers are involved in a traffic crash, they are more likely to be killed or injured. It is for this reason that I have directed the Department to focus on the challenges helping this growing segment of the population to travel safely.