Better-maintained white lines are not just the key to the driverless vehicle, but unlock freedom for older drivers: this is the theme of a new study being launched by the Road Safety Markings Association (RSMA).
Working with Newcastle University’s Institute for Ageing, the RSMA wants to understand the night-time driving restrictions among many drivers as they age – and if better road visibility could ease this self-imposed curfew.
“Among healthy older drivers, keeping mobile is desirable for the individual, their families and friends, and for society as a whole,” says George Lee, national director of the RSMA. “In any ageing population such as the UK’s, we cannot expect healthy people to accept a life of social isolation, simply because we have allowed the road network to be inaccessible by those who have lived here the longest.
“There is mounting pressure on road authorities to turn off street lights at night, and we know that road markings are not being maintained to compensate. These factors may be keeping older family members needlessly prisoners in their own homes.”
Newcastle University is a world leader in research into ageing, its causes, and its social and health consequences, and through its Institute for Ageing, it combines medical science research and social concern to tackle the challenges and opportunities for older people.
The RSMA survey, created jointly with the University, is being carried out among some 2000 participants of its VoiceNorth programme. Findings from the research will be launched at the RSMA’s annual conference in November; will shape the conference address from Professor Steve Taylor, professional advisor to the Optical Confederation; and form the basis of a longer-term project on night-time vision among older drivers with Newcastle University.
At the conference, Professor Steve Taylor will point out that good eyesight is essential for safe driving, and that as we age, all drivers will suffer some form of eyesight changes that may impair driving performance, with problems particularly at night time.
“We have exciting times ahead with the prospect of cars being able to ‘read’ road signs and markings and ultimately, to operate without a driver,” says George Lee.
“Meantime, we should focus on the immediate needs of humans,” he adds. “Any measures that make night time easier for older drivers will, without doubt, benefit all road users.”
