Advantages of seniors keeping licence longer

A leading aged care provider says the debate over how late in life seniors should be allowed to legally hold their licence has been a onesided argument until now.

Queensland aged care provider, Tall Trees, believes people are quick to judge when it comes to elderly drivers, but they are overlooking the incredible advantages of seniors holding onto their licences longer.

Tall Trees cofounder, Phil Usher, says although their judgement can get worse with time, broad sweeping attacks on all seniors over their mid 80s is uncalled for.

“Generalised statements about senior drivers as if they don’t have a place on the road are unacceptable because the great majority of these older seniors who still hold their licence rightly deserve to,” Mr Usher says.

“We strongly believe that for as long as seniors are responsibly able to drive they should be legally able to.

“The longer they’re able to, the longer they are able to maintain their freedom, independence, combat isolation and improve their quality of life.”

Mr Usher says they have a number of residents at their care communities that still hold a licence and continue to drive out and about as they please.

“Having the freedom and independence to drive to activities in the community, or make social calls with friends and families can really boost their happiness and wellbeing,” he adds.

“Without this, the amount of social interaction declines because they don’t have the means to get themselves to the activities and don’t want to rely on others to take them.

“We encourage residents to remain in control of their lifestyle and continue living out their days doing the things they enjoy most.”

Mr Usher says there are other initiatives in place in Tall Trees care communities created to battle depression and isolation among older Australians whether they drive or not.

“Many residents tend to give up their licences after moving in to Tall Trees despite still being responsibly able to drive, because our concierge services suit their needs,” Mr Usher says.

“We are aware of the risk of isolation among seniors which is why we arrange a number of craft, exercise, sport and social activities inside and outside our care communities for residents to participate in.”