Elderly drivers can stay on the roads for longer by turning on one tool found in many modern vehicles.
Older drivers could retain their freedoms using one tool (Image: Getty)
Older motorists can keep their freedom to drive for much longer if they start using one simple tool while beholden the wheel, according to experts. New research from the University of East Anglia (UEA) found that over 65s tend to rely more on help from GPS navigation systems.
Analysis shows that elderly individuals who use Sat Nav or smartphone maps tend to drive more frequently. Experts said this suggested that the technology was helping older motorists maintain their independence and driving licence later in life in a massive boost to many. They warned road users are likely to experience “worsening spatial abilities” later in life.
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Sat Navs can help motorists suffering with spatial awareness (Image: Getty)
Confused road users who forget where they are heading can get frustrated and many are likely to start driving less and less.
Senior author Prof Michael Hornberger, a spokesperson from UEA’s Norwich Medical School stressed GPS would help “mitigate against spatial orientation” concerns.
He said: “We found that a considerable majority of older drivers use navigation assistance at least for some journeys, and commonly for the entire journey to a new destination. Older people with a poorer sense of direction rely more on Sat Navs.
“But the really important thing we found is that those who use GPS tend to drive more frequently than those who do not, suggesting that these tools help mitigate against spatial orientation difficulties and help maintain driving mobility.
“This means that if we support older drivers with using GPS navigation, it could really help maintain their driving independence – keeping them on the roads safely for longer.”
Modern smartphone applications are now just as good as Sat Navs and can be quickly attached to a cradle for easy viewing while behind the wheel.
The research was led by UEA in collaboration with the University of Exeter, Oxford Brookes University, Chester Wellness Centre and the University of Leeds with the project funded by the Department of Transport (DfT).
Prof Hornberger added: “Because we have an ageing population, it’s really important to understand the factors that keep older people on the road, driving safely for longer.”
