Singapore needs to create a culture where seniors feel comfortable discussing their driving abilities, says Dr William Wan of the Singapore Kindness Movement.
In Singapore, drivers aged 65 and above are required to pass a medical exam to revalidate their licenses. Across the country, traffic accidents involving drivers aged 65 have been rising since 2020, prompting some districts to offer cash incentives for senior drivers to give up their licences.
Indeed, I turned 77 this year and am still driving. Unlike my wife, I would not mind giving up driving because public transport is a greener and increasingly more convenient option. In Singapore, drivers aged 65 and above are required to pass a medical exam to revalidate their licence. Subsequently, they will have to revalidate their licence every three years.
Perhaps a more substantive medical examination, including tests for reflexes and cognitive abilities, could be introduced. Some elderly may not be aware of their gradual decline or may not want to admit it, and more comprehensive checks are a necessary safeguard.Policies should be informed by data and best practices from around the world.
In Ontario, Canada, drivers over the age of 80 are required to attend a senior driver class, and pass a basic dementia test before their licence can be renewed. At the same time, public transportation and rideshare services should be enhanced as a viable alternative to driving. Encouraging seniors to use these modes of transport can help mitigate the emotional impact of giving up driving.As we navigate an ageing society, questions around senior drivers become increasingly relevant.
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