The Scottish Government and Road Safety Scotland have launched a new campaign encouraging older drivers to consider their driving habits and have a free regular NHS eye examination so they can continue driving safely.
With recent stats showing 29 per cent of car driver casualties killed or seriously injured in road collisions were over 601, the Fitness to Drive campaign highlights that eyesight can affect the way we drive as we get older and calls for anyone over 60 to have their eyes examined regularly, or as soon as they notice a change.
It’s common for drivers to adapt their driving behaviour as they get older, for example, by not driving at night or on busier roads to avoid the glare from oncoming traffic, or by driving shorter distances. These adaptations often happen gradually and can be a sign of deteriorating vision.
Janet Pooley, Chief Optometric Adviser, said: “As we get older, we can experience changes to our eyesight, including blurred vision, a reduced visual field and less accuracy when it comes to judging distances, which impact our ability to drive safely.
“The best way to make sure your eyes are healthy is to have them examined regularly and to visit your local optometrist if you notice any problems with your eyesight.
“As well as detecting changes in your eyesight, an NHS eye examination can pick up age-related eye conditions like cataracts and glaucoma, and it can identify and help prevent other health conditions like blood issues and diabetes, which can also affect driving.”
The campaign reminds drivers that changes in your eyesight don’t have to mean giving up driving and that your local optometrist can often correct your vision with new glasses.
Janet Pooley, Chief Optometric Adviser, continued: “In some cases your optometrist might advise that you require surgery to improve your vision if you have a condition like cataracts. Outstanding surgical results often enable people to continue to drive safely for many years.”
In addition to eyesight, other age-related factors can also affect our fitness to drive, such as high blood pressure, medication, and slower reaction times.
Drivers are encouraged to plan ahead for when they do choose to give up driving and consider alternatives for getting around without a car, including public transport and getting help from family members and friends.
Minister for Transport Fiona Hyslop said: “Changes in our eyesight is something we’re all affected by as we get older, and with Scotland’s population continuing to age, it’s particularly important to ensure we all stay safe on the road.
“We’re encouraging everyone in this age group to get their eyes checked regularly to make sure they are fit to drive.”
Age Scotland’s Big Survey 20232 shows driving is the most common way to get around among over 60s, with 72% of respondents saying this is the mode of transportation they use most.
Katherine Crawford, CEO of Age Scotland, said: “We know driving is hugely important to older people and plays a big part in their ability to stay active, mobile and independent.
“This campaign is a good reminder for older drivers to get their eyes examined regularly or, if they notice a change in their eyesight, to make sure they have the best vision for driving safely.”
Betty Gilchrist said: “I’m not as confident at driving as I once was, particularly at junctions where I take a bit more time now.
“Driving in the dark has also become more challenging. The glare from headlights can be dazzling, so I’m reluctant to drive in the evenings and I stick to short journeys on local roads.
“It’s important to have regular eye exams as we get older and our vision changes. Many of us also develop conditions like cataracts which can be picked up at an eye exam and treated to keep us driving for longer.”
Derek MacPherson said: “As I’ve aged, I’ve become more aware of my eyesight changing and how that affects my driving. I’m now less likely to drive long journeys or drive at night, when the glare from other cars and streetlights can make it harder to see.
“Getting my eyes checked by the optometrist is quick and easy, and knowing my eyesight is up to scratch helps me stay confident on the road so I can keep enjoying the freedom of driving.”
The campaign will also address family and friends who may be initiating discussions about driving with their loved ones, which can be a sensitive subject.
For more information about the campaign or how to book a free NHS eye examination, go to roadsafety.scot.
Follow Road Safety Scotland Facebook and X (formerly known as Twitter) (@roadsafetyscot) pages for more details.
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