The Australian Medical Association Queensland (AMAQ) has told the ABC that people are going to a different doctor or medical practice – particularly in country areas where there’s inadequate transport – in an effort to hold onto their licenses.
Drivers over 75 must have a medical certificate to keep driving, but according to the story, GPs say they are being pressured to test patients’ eyesight, frailty and brain function in less than 15 minutes.
I do understand why some drivers would be reluctant to give up their licenses.
If you don’t live in inner-city areas, there are often few transport options available – your ability to live independently and move around is instantly gone.
Of course people should take responsibility for their driving and stop if they can’t do so safely.
More options for people to stay mobile
But if we want older drivers to stay off the road and stay engaged with their community, we need to offer more incentives – and we don’t just mean cheap noodles.
That means ensuring bus routes travel past retirement villages and other areas with a high population of seniors – and thinking outside the square too.
The NSW Government has just announced it will trial driverless buses in the regional cities of Coffs Harbour and Armidale, with a local retirement village involved in the Coffs trial.
Could this be the way to go?
