Bringing up the topic of retiring from driving can be a tricky subject to approach. For family members and loved ones, safety is usually the main concern. But driving may represent freedom and independence and a way to stay connected to the world around us. The thought of giving up the car can be overwhelming, let alone what may feel like the inconvenience of using public transport!’

Our new Mature Driving Appraisal (MDA), launched in partnership with William Merritt Centre, and thanks to funding from The Road Safety Trust, supports older drivers in checking their driving ability and regaining confidence.

Everyone’s journey with driving as they age is unique. Some may continue to drive well into their 80s or 90s with no issues, whilst others might notice changes earlier. It is not a question of stopping driving when you reach a particular age, but it is important to be aware of the subtle signs that it might be time to reassess your ability to drive safely, whatever your age.

The MDA respects individual situations. It is carried out by an Approved Driving Instructor with specific training. They will come to you in the area that you already drive in and sit in your own car alongside you, with the intention of replicating your routes and routines. Through this informal review, they will also give you up-to-date road safety tips and advice about vehicle adaptations that could make it easier to continue driving.

You can book a Mature Driving Appraisal through the William Merritt Centre.

If you have a Mature Driving Appraisal, it will help you identify any changes in your ability to drive safely. You may be able to make positive changes, and it is very likely to increase your confidence. If you realise that you are no longer able to drive safely, it will help you find positive alternatives.

MDAs were the result of the Driving Change Together (DCT) initiative, funded by the Road Safety Trust and led by Leeds Older People’s Forum (LOPF) in partnership with William Merritt Disabled Living Centre and the Influencing Travel Behaviour team at Leeds City Council. DCT worked with older people in Leeds to understand the complexities of retiring from driving, find ways to help them assess their driving ability as they age and consider safer alternatives.

Read the independent evaluation of Driving Change Together.

Jenni Scott
Administrator, Leeds Older People’s Forum