Driving and Mobility in Late Life

Mobility is a broad concept used to refer to any type of purposeful movement within the environment. In application, it is a continuum that encompasses some of the most meaningful developmental milestones signifying changes in independence ranging from a child taking first steps to increased leisure travel after retirement or to needing an assistive device to walk in older age. There are many types of mobility; however, regardless of how it is characterized, mobility is a critical component of well-being and independence throughout the life span. Diminished mobility is associated with a multitude of negative physical, psychological, and social outcomes including poor health, depression, social isolation, and death. Although all aspects of mobility are important for successful development, this entry focuses on older drivers because ...