Individual differences in South Australian general practitioners' knowledge, procedures and opinions of the assessment of older drivers

Abstract

Objective: Investigate individual differences in general practitioners' (GP) knowledge, procedures and opinions of older driver assessments. Methods: Ninety-nine South Australian GPs completed a survey on their knowledge, procedures and opinions concerning fitness to drive assessments in older people. Results: Most GPs were well informed about older driver legislation and used appropriate medical assessments when considering fitness to drive. However, there was much less consistency in the assessment of relevant cognitive abilities. Most GPs believed that there was a need for more transport and support services for older drivers when they ceased driving. Demographic and qualitative information helped explain some differences in both GPs' practice and opinions concerning the assessment of older drivers. Conclusions: Measures should ensure that GPs have accurate knowledge of legislation concerning older drivers; appropriate tests of driving-related cognitive abilities are available; and transport and support options for those older individuals who are no longer fit to drive are considered.