Outil de sensibilisation des conducteurs âgés aux capacités requises pour une conduite automobile sécuritaire et responsable (OSCAR): développement et validation

Abstract

The objective of the study was to develop and validate an intervention tool to sensitize older drivers to safe driving. A scoping study was first conducted to develop an awareness tool for safe and responsible automobile driving (OSCAR). The tool includes a series of 15 questions and 15 educational capsules on aging and driving. A pre-experimental design, including a pre-test and post-test conducted eight to ten weeks after exposure to the intervention, was used with 48 drivers aged between 67 and 84 who drove at least once a week. Overall, the results demonstrate that OSCAR increased the older drivers’ interest, openness and knowledge about the abilities required and compensatory strategies for driving (p < 0.01). After exposure to OSCAR, the majority of the participants confirmed that changes occurred in at least one of their abilities. Moreover, half of the older drivers started using more than five compensatory strategies. In summary, in addition to increasing older adults’ interest, openness and knowledge to discussion about driving, OSCAR also improved awareness of the changes that could negatively impact safe driving and enhanced utilization of compensatory strategies. While promoting safe driving and the prevention of crashes and injuries, this intervention could ultimately help older adults maintain or increase their transportation mobility. More studies are needed to further evaluate OSCAR and improve its effectiveness.