Development and Validation of an Awareness Toolfor Safe and Responsible Driving (OSCAR)

Abstract

Declines in driving ability may jeopardize the safety of older drivers and other road users. Objective: This study aimed to develop and validate an awareness tool to foster and maintain the mobility of older drivers through safe driving. Methods: A scoping study was conducted to select the best questions and tips to increase older drivers’ awareness, followed by a validation with 12 older drivers. Results: The awareness tool informs older drivers about competency as well as compensatory strategies for safe and responsible driving (OSCAR). It includes 15 questions and 15 tips on aging and driving. Participants were very interested in the tool, and confirmed its relevance and usefulness. Finally, the majority of older drivers said they would recommend OSCAR to other people and use it to discuss their concerns regarding driving with their family or health care professional. Conclusions: Concise, complete, clear, accurate and written in accessible language, OSCAR fosters awareness and enables seniors to identify changes in themselves and learn about compensatory strategies and resources. While promoting safe driving and the prevention of collisions and injuries on the roads, OSCAR could ultimately allow seniors to maintain or increase their mobility in the community and their social participation.