Summary Report of Experienced Driver Focus Groups Findings May 2016

Focus Group Research on
Older/Experienced Driver Issues
Summary Report
of Findings
May 2016
Conducted in cooperation
with Drive Smart Colorado,
Drive Smart, and the Colorado
Department of Transportation
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Older/Experienced Driver Focus Groups

Summary Report
of Findings
May 2016
Table of Contents
Acknowledgements ........................................................................................... 1
Introduction ...................................................................................................... 3
Key Findings....................................................................................................... 7
Conclusions ....................................................................................................... 11
Summary of Findings ......................................................................................... 15
Appendices ...................................................................................................... A-1

Appendix A: Focus group discussion guide ................................................. A-3
Appendix B: Focus group individual response form .................................... A-5
Acknowledgements
KezziahWatkins gratefully acknowledges the contribution of the 178 Colorado
residents who participated in the Drive Smart Colorado and Drive Smart older/
experienced driver focus groups. We appreciate their time and willingness to
share their wisdom and insights which were invaluable in understanding the
challenges and experiences of older/experienced Colorado drivers.
We want to thank the staff of Drive Smart Colorado based in Colorado Springs,
and Drive Smart based in Evergreen, and the Colorado Department of
Transportation (CDOT) for their project support and assistance. This included
development of the list of research topics to explore, directing and
coordinating with local recruiters for participants in six Drive Smart Colorado
program counties and direct recruitment of participants for three Drive Smart
program counties.
Maile Gray, Executive Director, Drive Smart Colorado
Barb Bailey, Program Coordinator, Drive Smart Colorado
Jackie Mohr, Executive Director, Drive Smart
Jan Douglas, Experienced Driver Coordinator, Drive Smart
Benita Miller, Program Control Analyst, Transportation Safety, CDOT
Additionally, we would like to thank the recruiters in six Drive Smart
Colorado counties for recruiting participants for the older driver discussions.
Custer: Terra-Raye Carter, Parents as Teachers-Magic Moments, Westcliffe, CO
Larimer: Alison Newman, University of Colorado Health Northern
Colorado, Fort Collins, CO
Las Animas: Anna Risely, Sayre Senior Center, Trinidad, CO
Lincoln: Barbara Berry, Hub City Senior Center, Limon, CO
Montrose: Sallie Thoreson, Colorado Department of Public Health and
Environment, Grand Junction, CO
Pueblo: Kirsten Taylor, Drive Smart Pueblo, Pueblo, CO
Finally, our thanks to these organizations for their support of this research
by allowing participant recruitment fliers to be distributed in their facilities:
Asian Chamber of Commerce
Aurora Center for Active Adults
Aurora Public Library
Denver Buddhist Temple
Denver Regional Mobility
and Access Council
Garden Plaza of Aurora
(Senior Residential Living)
Golden Recreation Center

Hiawatha Davis Jr. Recreation Center
Highland Senior Recreation Center
Jeffco Aging Well
Lakewood Community Resources
Senior Resource Centers: Wheatridge,
Evergreen and Southwest Plaza
Simpson United Methodist Church
Tamai Tower (Sakura Square)
Older/Experienced Driver Research Report1
2Older/Experienced Driver Research Report
Introduction
The aging road user was identified by CDOT as one of the Emphasis Areas in its
2014 Colorado Strategic Highway Safety Plan. According to the plan, The key
to ensuring the safety of the aging road user population is to develop a
program that enables them to travel as long as it is possible to do so safely.
Given the fact that the number of older drivers on the roads in the U.S. is
expected to double in the next 15 years, there is undeniable value in
understanding the issues surrounding drivers ages 65 and over so that
programs and supports can be put in place to protect their safety as well as
the safety of the traveling public.
In Colorado, crashes involving drivers age 65+ resulted in 519 fatalities and
2,602 serious injuries between 2007 and 2012. In 2012, 18% of all fatalities
resulting from crashes on Colorado roadways and 13% of all serious injuries
involved one or more drivers age 65 or older.
In Colorado, crashes involving

drivers age 65+ resulted in 519
fatalities and 2,602 serious injuries
between 2007 and 2012. In 2012,
18% of all fatalities resulting
from crashes on Colorado
roadways and 13% of all serious
injuries involved one or more
drivers age 65 or older.
To better understand how to improve the safety of older drivers, Drive Smart
Colorado applied for and received a 2015 grant from CDOT to research issues
related to older drivers and those who care for them. The qualitative research
conducted in 2015 in El Paso County included one focus group made up of
older drivers, one focus group made up of children of older drivers, and a
series of five telephone interviews with physicians who treat older drivers.
While the responses received were valid and valued, there was interest in
future research which focused solely on older drivers themselves in order to
further explore the topics raised through the 2015 research and to solicit
responses to additional topics. It was also important to expand the number of
research participants to increase the degree of reliability of responses.
To that end, Drive Smart Colorado pursued and was awarded grant funding to
expand similar research in 2016 throughout their service area with a focus on
older drivers. This research was intended to address two of CDOTs Core
Performance Measures: to reduce the number of traffic fatalities and to
reduce the number of serious injuries in traffic crashes. To produce reliable
results, the 2016 Drive Smart Colorado research consisted of a series of seven
community discussions to test and expand on the response themes heard in
the initial research efforts.
Additionally, the Drive Smart organization requested and was granted funding
from CDOT to research experienced drivers in their service areas of Arapahoe,
Jefferson, and Denver Counties by conducting five focus groups. The goal of
the Drive Smart grant was to decrease the rate of aging road users hospitalized
due to crash injuries in Jefferson County from 51.4 people in 2013 to the state
average of 39.4 people (per 100,000 population) by September 30, 2018.
The terms older and experienced are both used throughout this Report in
acknowledgement of the name of the program areas of both Drive Smart
organizations.
Research Type and Scope

Qualitative research primarily focuses on the anecdotal sharing of personal
experiences and circumstances. It is customarily used to explore and gain an
understanding of peoples ideas, concerns, and underlying feelings related to
a specific issue or problem. One of the most effective and reliable methods for
conducting this type of research is focus groups.
In order to understand the challenges and experiences of older/experienced
Colorado drivers, a total of 12 focus groups were conducted with Colorado
residents primarily over the age of 65 in nine counties across the state.
Conducted between January 11 and April 1, 2016, the sessions were held in
the following Colorado counties: Arapahoe, Custer, Denver, Jefferson, Larimer,
Las Animas, Lincoln, Montrose, and Pueblo.
Recruitment of Participants
Solicitation for and recruitment of focus group participants was coordinated by
the staffs of Drive Smart Colorado and Drive Smart. Drive Smart Colorado staff
worked closely with coordinators of senior programs and facilities in Custer,
Larimer, Las Animas, Lincoln, Montrose, and Pueblo Counties to recruit group
participants. Drive Smart staff recruited participants from Arapahoe, Denver
and Jefferson Counties by distributing fliers which explained the purpose of
the groups and encouraged experienced drivers to sign up to participate in a
group. The fliers were placed in 14 locations around the Denver metro area
with organizations serving a diverse range of communities.
As an incentive for participation, Drive Smart Colorado and Drive Smart were
able to use CDOT grant funds to provide each participant a $25 Visa gift card.
As an additional incentive, refreshments or a light meal were provided to all
groups.
Demographics
A total of 178 people participated in the 12 focus groups; 30% of those were
male and 70% were female. In order to allow all participants to comfortably
participate in the time allotted for the discussion, group size was limited to 20
participants. The average size of the groups was 15 participants.
Geographic locations for the groups were chosen in order to generate and
compare responses from experienced drivers in both urban and non-urban
settings. Focus groups conducted in Arapahoe, Denver, Jefferson, Larimer, and
All participants were asked to

indicate their age range on a
written form. The following
are the responses submitted:
Under 65 6 participants
65 to 70 54 participants
86 and over 10 participants
Median age range of the 169
participants who provided age
information: 76 to 80
Pueblo Counties were comprised primarily of residents living in urban settings;

there were, however, a few residents in one Denver County group and one
Jefferson County group who lived in nearby outlying areas such as Evergreen,
Conifer and Lookout Mountain. Focus groups conducted in Custer, Las Animas,
Lincoln, and Montrose Counties were comprised of residents living in nonurban settings.
In addition to learning about possible geographic differences, it was important
to understand and compare differences among targeted constituency groups
regarding the issues, challenges, and experiences facing older drivers. Targeted
constituency conversations were held with one group of Latino residents of
Pueblo County, one group of African-American Denver County residents, and
one group of Asian-American residents, also from Denver County. These
constituency groups represented 25% of the total number of focus group
participants.
Comparison of responses from urban and non-urban groups and from targeted
constituency groups have been analyzed and included as part of this report.
Targeted constituency
conversations were held with one
group of Latino residents of Pueblo
County, one group of AfricanAmerican Denver County residents
and one group of Asian-Americans
residents, also from Denver
County. These constituency
groups represented 25% of the
total number of focus group
participants.
Group Format
The group discussions were conducted through a structured but comfortable
and informal conversation. Each of the focus group discussions lasted
approximately 90 minutes.
Staff members from Drive Smart Colorado or Drive Smart introduced each
focus group, explaining the research purpose and providing brief information
and reminders about driver safety measures. The discussions were facilitated
and documented by personnel from the consulting firm of KezziahWatkins
using a pre-determined discussion guide. The guide was developed by the
consultant, in cooperation with representatives from both Drive Smart
organizations and CDOT. All discussions were documented by a note-taker
using a flip chart pad.
Following an approximate 60-minute discussion, participants of each group
were asked to complete an individual response form, allowing them to add
their perspectives to the session record with a greater degree of anonymity.
Of the 178 total participants, 169 submitted completed response forms.
The discussion guide and individual response form can be found in the
Appendices of this report.
About this Report
This report includes a summary of the responses from all the focus groups. The
Key Findings and Conclusions sections provide a snapshot of results. The
Summary of Findings by Question section provides more in-depth review of
key themes identified across groups.
A separate Supplemental Report provides all focus group responses, including:
All verbatim discussion responses organized and analyzed by question;

Drive Smart Colorado groups verbatim discussion responses by question;
Drive Smart groups verbatim discussion responses by question;
Verbatim discussion responses by group; and
All verbatim written responses by question.
Research Reliability
The 178 people participating in these focus groups cannot be considered to
be a statistically-valid random sample representing residents over the age of
65 in the state of Colorado. The 2010 census establishes a Colorado population
of residents over the age of 65 at almost 550,000, about 11 percent of the
total population.
However, its important not to confuse statistical validity with reliability of
responses. Each of the focus group participants brought an authentic
perspective that is certain to be held by others of his/her constituents. Their
responses can be considered to be reliable and generalizable to a larger
population.
Key Findings
Visibility
I dont care if youre like an

owl. All of a sudden,
pedestrians and bikers are
there in front of you.
Personal vision and roadway visibility are significant issues for older/
experienced drivers. Over one-third of the responses to the question about
what would make driving easier focused on personal visibility issues.
Participants across all 12 groups spoke consistently of having difficulty with
night driving, blind spots in vehicles, seeing roadway signs and lane markings,
and dealing with the glare from other lights. When asked if they needed help
with their vehicles, the most-mentioned responses again focused on driver
visibility issues, such as having to use cushions to adequately see, the need for
improved mirrors or mirror adjustments, and bigger windows in vehicles. In
discussions related to roadway design, almost one-third of the responses
focused on roadway visibility issues such as difficulty of seeing/reading street
signs, the need for more frequent painting of lane markings, a desire to have
highway signs painted on roadways, the lack of street lights, and the need for
pedestrian crosswalks that were more visible.
Roadway design
In the first few focus groups, when describing their biggest personal driving
challenges, issues related to roadway design were consistently mentioned.
Because of the consistency of these responses, a specific question related to
road design was added to the discussion for all subsequent groups: Is there
anything about road design that would help? In response, participants
consistently expressed the desire for better-designed highway and street lanes
and lane markings, and longer acceleration and deceleration lanes, and
improved left-turn lanes and signals.
We havent gone through

drivers education for such a
long time. We dont know how
to do roundabouts.
Many expressed frustration with and the desire for more information about
using roundabouts/traffic circles, either because they were not familiar with
how to use them, or they felt other drivers didnt know how to use them.
Vehicle/bicycle interactions were also frequently mentioned, with some
confusion expressed about how that interaction is supposed to occur,
particularly in relation to the movements of motorists on the street and
bicyclists in a dedicated bicycle lane. Requests were made for wider road
shoulders to accommodate bicycle traffic and the need for dedicated lanes
for bicyclists. Clearly, many believe the rules of the road have dramatically
changed since they began driving and they dont feel they have the
information they need to deal with the changes.
Need for Information

Participants also consistently spoke of the need and desire for information
about transportation alternatives and services available to them, about
assessment programs for older/experienced drivers, and about the resources
they could rely on for assistance with transportation needs. Some participants
expressed appreciation for the opportunity to participate in a focus group
because of the information they had received and had learned from each
other. A number of others indicated on their individual written response forms
that they would like to receive information about transportation alternatives
in their communities. When asked how they would like to receive that
information, most said either through email, the Internet, or social media.
Get practical information on

rules of the road and
roundabouts and alternatives
disseminated via mass
mailings via the Post Office.
Open to Technology
Many respondents appeared interested in and open to use of new technology,
whether related to personal vehicles, roadway improvements, or to
transportation alternatives. Those participants who owned newer
model vehicles with blind spot alerts, back-up cameras and other
newer technology features seemed to appreciate the benefits they
provide. Others spoke of the need for more or improved technology
on roadways, such as flashing pedestrian-crossing signals and the need
for motorcyclists to be more visible, perhaps by making the
motorcycle light up at night. The use of new transportation alternative
technologies was also routinely discussed, particularly in the urban
groups. A number of participants said they had used the light rail system and
seemed quite pleased with it. One participant said she routinely uses Car2go
and a few others touted the benefits of Uber and/or Lyft. A few even
suggested that older/experienced drivers problems will likely be solved in the
not-too-distant future with the emergence of driverless cars.
Assessment of Drivers Skills

Many of the older/experienced drivers involved in this research demonstrated
an interest in receiving information that would be helpful in taking personal
stock of ones own driving habits. When asked to respond to a hypothetical
older/experienced driver assessment program, respondents indicated a
significant degree of support. They liked that the assessment would provide
information that could help them with their own decision-making about
driving without having to involve family or friends. In addition, many thought
such a program had the potential to lead to good results for themselves and
other drivers. Some even suggested that such an assessment should be tied to
ones ability to renew a drivers license after a certain age. Those with
concerns about the assessment program primarily focused on confidentiality,
liability, and cost issues, as well as whether those drivers who really need it
would take the assessment.
It might be good to help you

see whats not going so well.
It might help you accept those
things others and your kids
say to you.
No, if you have a good

driving record, you shouldnt
need a test. It costs money for
the state.
I live up in the mountains. If I

cant drive, Im stuck up in the
mountains. We dont have bus
service during the day. No
access, so well have to
move.
Interest in and support of increased drivers license requirements for people

ages 66 and over were mixed. Some participants acknowledged that motor
skills can decline with age and said they would support increased testing for
older drivers at the time of license renewal. Some participants qualified their
support for increased requirements, suggesting that older/experienced
drivers needs should be taken into consideration, such as providing written
rather than computerized tests and providing booklets for seniors explaining
the new rules in larger print. Others believe basing increased testing
requirements on age is not fair because every human being ages differently.
They suggested that the need for increased testing should instead be based on
each individuals driving record, regardless of age. Still others thought
increased testing should apply to all drivers. A smaller number of respondents
think the current state requirements are good and sufficient.
When Driving Ends
Among the many focus group participants who are still driving, there is
without a doubt the expectation that there will be profound personal impacts
when they are no longer able to drive. The real and imagined impacts are so
significant that some participants had a difficult time even responding to the
questions that raised that eventual possibility. Among those questions were:
Who would you talk to you if had concerns about your own driving?; What
do you think about a driver assessment for older/experienced drivers?; and
What will the impacts be on your life when you can no longer
drive? Many chose to avoid answering the questions directly and
instead talked about other things not related to the question.
When they did talk about impacts of no longer being able to
drive, some simply said they would use other transportation
services. Others said they would likely have to move from their
current residence, and in the case of non-urban participants,
would have to relocate from their own communities if they could
no longer drive. A significant number of others spoke of
depression, isolation, and devastation when discussing the
prospect of no longer being able to drive.
Demographic Differences
Urban/Non-Urban
There were few differences between the responses of urban resident and nonurban residents in these focus groups. One expected difference between
urban and non-urban responses was that urban group participants reported
being more concerned about the volume of traffic than non-urban residents.
The only other major urban/non-urban difference came in the discussion
about the use of transportation alternatives. In urban groups, a number of
people, even those who still drive their own vehicles, spoke routinely of using
alternate transportation methods, such as an RTD bus, light rail, and Uber. In
non-urban areas, the alternatives to driving ones own vehicle are limited, as
one would expect. As a result, many fewer non-urban participants said in
response to this question that they use now or will use alternate
transportation methods in the future.
Targeted Constituencies
There were few striking differences between the responses of the targeted
constituency groups compared to all group responses, but there were
subtleties that provide insights.
More people would ride the

Eastern Council of
Governments bus if there was
daily service and if more
people knew about it.
When asked who they would talk to if they had concerns about their driving
ability, in the Latino group there was divided support for wanting to speak with
an objective person who could test them and for speaking with their children.
In the African-American group, about half of the participants indicated they
would talk with both friends and family, and a few
mentioned they would talk with Jesus, which was not
mentioned in any other group. Notably, no one in the
African-American group said they would talk with a
doctor or to themselves. The respondents in the AsianAmerican group were more likely to talk to
themselves than any other group, with a mixed response
on whether they would speak with their children.
The African-American group was generally in favor of the
assessment concept, but was the only group sharing
wide agreement that results should be shared with a person of authority. This
group was also the only group with a majority of participants having a negative
response to the idea of mandatory retesting for drivers license renewal after
age 66. Participants in this group did not seem to be as aware of transportation alternatives as compared to other urban groups.
The Latino group expressed more emotional well-being and isolation concerns
related to no longer being able to drive than any other group. The AfricanAmerican and Asian-American groups did not express any emotional wellbeing or isolation concerns. Most African-American participants indicated they
would rely on family and friends when the time comes that they can no longer
drive their own vehicles.
I would hope that I would be

like my mother and decide for
myself. Its an extremely
difficult decision.
Conclusions
Findings from the 2016 focus group research of older/experienced driver
issues, concerns, and needs confirm and build on the findings from the 2015
focus group research with older drivers, their children, and physicians who
treat older drivers.
Themes that emerged through the 2016 discussions also affirm the current
program focus of both the Drive Smart Colorado and Drive Smart
organizations. The findings are also in close alignment with the Aging Road
User Action Plan included in CDOTs 2014 Colorado Strategic Highway Safety
Plan.
The following conclusions can be drawn about the issues, concerns, and needs
of older/experienced drivers in multiple counties across Colorado.
There Is a Void In Information
The 2016 focus group participants consistently cited a need and desire
for information about transportation alternatives and services available
to them. They also want to learn about assessment programs and the
resources they can rely on for assistance with transportation needs.
When made aware of the resource booklet, Guide for Aging Drivers and
Their Families, from Plains to Peaks, created by Drive Smart Colorado in
2015 and updated in 2016, almost all expressed interest in having a copy.
Many indicated they prefer to receive information through email, social

media, or online sources.
Proactive Programs Are Welcomed
Across all groups, a significant number of participants acknowledged the

need for a voluntary assessment of driving abilities as people age and
indicated an openness to participating in such assessments.
The primary reason for this support was that the assessment could provide
them valuable information. That information could then help them make
up their own minds about any personal driving adjustments needed,
rather than having to rely on or be talked to by others.
It was important to many participants that assessments be affordable and

confidential and that potential liability issues be adequately addressed.
The option of taking the assessment in a kiosk in a secure public place was
viewed favorably by many.
Many participants were familiar with the Association of Retired

Persons (AARP) Smart DriverTM course, felt it was a good assessment tool,
and the reward of an insurance discount was meaningful.
Most participants were not aware of the CarFit program offered by both
Drive Smart organizations and expressed interest in learning more about it
and/or participating in it.
Education Is Needed on Infrastructure Improvements
Frustration with roadway improvements such as roundabouts, vehicle/

bicycle lane interactions, left-turn movements, and flashing yellow turns
was apparent across most focus groups.
People are confused about the rules of the road regarding these new
design/infrastructure elements. They want and need information about
how to use them.
Many older/experienced drivers reported limiting their exposure to

recent infrastructure improvements and traffic challenges by limiting their
routes to neighborhood streets, if at all possible.
Increased Licensing Requirements? No Consensus
Discussions of increased licensing requirements for older/experienced

drivers drew mixed response. Some support it and some believe all people
age differently so basing increased requirements on an arbitrary age
threshold is not fair. Others believe it is more appropriate to base licensing
requirements on an individuals driving record, regardless of age.
Some participants qualified their support: they want any testing

requirements to be sensitive to older residents needs.
The majority of participants were supportive of a hearing test, with many

believing it should be a requirement for all ages.
Some suggested creating a drivers license with restrictions designed

specifically for older/experienced drivers, such as limited to a set mile
radius around ones place of residence or limited to daytime driving.
Visibility Is Key
Across all focus groups, personal and roadway visibility challenges were
a consistent theme.
412Older/Experienced
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Driver
Research
Research
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In personal vehicles, participants said they need help with eliminating

blind spots and reducing glare from oncoming traffic and lights near
roadways.
Nighttime and daytime roadway visibility improvements were requested

repeatedly. Signs to provide advance warning of upcoming streets, more
visible roadway and street signs and lane markings, more street lighting,
and more visible pedestrian crosswalks would be welcomed.
There Is An Openness to New Technology
Participants were generally interested in and open to the use of new

technology, whether in personal vehicles, roadway design enhancements,
or transportation alternatives.
Having information about how to respond to new roadway technologies,

such as flashing yellow lights and protected turn lane signals, is critical.
A few participants in urban groups expressed interest in having tutorials

available for how to use the bus system and/or the light rail system.
Alternatives Can Lessen the Blow
The contemplation of no longer being able to drive ones own vehicle is

particularly unsettling to non-urban residents because they have few
options available to them. Many without a strong personal support system
face being forced to leave the communities they love or giving up their
day-to-day independence.
There is significant interest in non-urban locations for regular and reliable

transportation options. While not adequate to fully address existing
needs, out of necessity some non-urban communities have created
volunteer-based transportation alternatives on their own. One such
alternative is the Amish Uber program in Westcliffe. Its volunteer drivers
serve Amish people living in the community who do not drive motorized
vehicles and also serves other community residents who need
transportation assistance.
In both urban and non-urban locations, participants cited older/

experienced drivers who have others depending on them due to disability
or health issues. Those older drivers continue to drive, not because they
want to, but because they believe they have no alternatives.
Summary of Findings by Question

Personal Driving Challenges
I cant see or read the signs
until Im right up on them.
Most of the time, its when
street signs are in a funny
place or blocked by trees
and bushes.
In order to get all participants engaged early on in the group discussions, every
group began with a request by the facilitator for each participant to write
down a few words to describe their biggest driving challenge since turning age
65. Each participant was then asked to verbally share their personal driving
challenge(s) with the rest of the group.
In response, most participants indicated that night driving was the most
challenging for them. Some people spoke of general difficulty with driving at
night, while others mentioned specific elements that impact their ability and/
or willingness to drive at night. Specifically,
participants cited the glare from bright lights,
Biggest Personal Driving Challenge
either coming from oncoming headlights of
other cars, or from bright or neon lights on
businesses properties adjacent to the
roadway. Some mentioned difficulty with
reading street signs at night.
The second most-frequently-mentioned
challenge focused on other drivers driving
habits. Echoing what many older drivers said
in the 2015 Drive Smart Colorado research,
almost one-fifth of the challenges mentioned
focused on difficulties caused by other
drivers. Many spoke about others lack of use
of signals when changing lanes, or tailgating,
or running red lights. Others were concerned
about the apparent level of distraction of other drivers participants observed
using cell phones while driving.
My biggest challenge is not

speeding its a good thing I
have cruise control.
Other frequently-mentioned challenges related to roadway visibility issues,

such as the size and spacing of signs, the lack of lighting along roadways, and
the lane markings on streets/highways. Some mentioned having blind spots in
their vehicles while others lamented the frequency of trees or bushes blocking
their visibility of street signs. Weather, particularly driving in ice and snow, is
another challenge mentioned consistently across groups.
All groups mentioned traffic-related issues such as driving movements,
including parking, parking lot safety, and backing up as challenges. Speed of
traffic both by other drivers and themselves was mentioned as a challenge
by a number of people.
A number of respondents spoke of their own physical limitations that make

driving difficult for them, including range of motion, lack of concentration and
focus, and personal height which causes difficulties with seeing whats going
on around them. A handful of participants even reported repeated episodes of
falling asleep while driving.
Road design-related concerns that arose included the design of and lack of
information on how motorists should treat bicycle lanes, the design of parking
lots, and design issues with specific roadways in some cities and towns in
which the focus groups were held. One design issue mentioned a number of
times related to roundabouts or traffic circles. Specifically, people voiced
concerns about vision
issues generated by the
speed of vehicles entering
the circle or by
landscaping blocking
visibility. Others simply
said they were
uncomfortable using
them, while others
indicated they liked them,
but felt that other people
did not understand how to use them.
My biggest problem is staying

focused. I have to force myself.
If I cant focus anymore, Ill
have to stop driving.
Demographic Comparisons
Urban/Non-Urban
Responses to the biggest personal driving challenge were similar among urban
and non-urban group participants. Both indicated that night driving was the
biggest challenge for them. Both also cited others driving habits as the second
most-frequently-mentioned challenge. Not surprisingly, participants in the five
urban groups were more concerned about the volume of traffic than nonurban residents.
Latino: Notably, road design challenges were the biggest concern for this
group, just ahead of night driving. Although road design wasnt ranked as the
biggest challenge in the other Pueblo County group, that group did mention
road design issues several times when asked what would make driving easier.
Weather was not mentioned as a challenge by the Latino group or the other
Pueblo County group.
African-American: Respondents in this group reported weather, specifically
driving in snow, as their biggest challenge, slightly ahead of night driving. This
community discussion was held in eastern Denver County and there were
The new bike lane [in Pueblo]

is an issue. They need to put
out more information to the
public. People dont know how
to merge or how to drive
through this area. They need to
have a sign about 300 feet
ahead of you that alerts you.
specific concerns about the areas they drive in that were not mentioned in
other groups, including challenges with multiples names for a street and
parking limitations in front of their homes. One response was, In Aurora,
there are three or four different names for the same street.
Asian-American: There were no notable differences.
What Would Make Driving Easier

The second question posed to all focus group participants
was, Is there anything that would make driving easier for
you? Over one-third of the responses (39%) dealt with
technology improvements, such as backup screens, larger
mirrors, and blind spot alerts in vehicles. Others spoke of the
need for more or improved technology on roadways such as
flashing pedestrian-crossing signals and the need for
motorcyclists to be more visible, perhaps by making the
motorcycle light up at night.
Other responses to this question focused on roadway
visibility improvements (21%). Mirroring the biggest
challenge responses above, many people mentioned trees,
bushes and/or large SUVs blocking drivers vision at
intersections. Others spoke of the need for better lane
markings on the streets and more visible street signs as a
result of using reflective lettering, larger signs and/or better
lighting.
Signs and stripes on roads are

helpful but need to be
repainted more often.
Ive found that as I am

shrinking, its hard to block the
sun from my eyes. I would like
to be able to raise my seat.
Some said they believe driving would be easier for them if

the habits of other drivers (14%) were improved. Among the concerns
expressed were distracted drivers, lack of use of turn signals, motorcycle
visibility and movements in traffic, and sharing the road with bicyclists. Issues
related to night driving were also cited by some respondents (10%), mostly
focused on reduction of bright lights and roadway glare.
Since issues related to roadway design were consistently mentioned as a
response to the biggest driving challenge question in the first three focus
groups, a probing question, Is there anything about road design that would
help, was added to the discussion guide for the remaining nine groups. In
response, almost half (48%) of the items mentioned related to issues such as
the need for better-designed lanes and lane markings, and the need for wider
road shoulders. Other design issues mentioned focused on the need for
dedicated lanes for bicyclists, improved left-turn lanes and signalization, and
longer acceleration and deceleration lanes.
Other responses to the road design question dealt with roadway visibility
issues (32%). Frequently mentioned were difficulty of seeing/reading street
signs, the need for more frequent painting of lane markings, the desire to have
highway signs painted on the roads themselves, the lack of street lights, and
the need for better pedestrian crosswalks. Law enforcement-related issues
were also mentioned by some (14%), either focused on the lack of
enforcement of speed limits, or the use of cell phones while driving, or other
drivers not obeying the laws. A few responses focused on road maintenance
(5%), such as filling potholes on roadways and cleaning debris from bicycle
lanes.
Painting curbs and

centerpieces would make
driving easier. They are very
difficult for you to see. They
could use fluorescent paint.
When asked if they needed help with their vehicles in order to make driving
easier, the most-mentioned responses focused on driver visibility issues, such
as having to use cushions to adequately see, the need
for improved mirrors or mirror adjustments, bigger
windows in vehicles, and elimination of blind spots.
Others mentioned frustrations with seat belt
adjustments in their vehicles.
A probing question related to whether respondents
would consider using driverless cars was added to the
The vast majority of focus group
discussion guide after a few respondents in some of the
early groups mentioned them as a transportation
participants reported using their
alternative. Time constraints allowed the question to
seatbelts at all times.
only be asked in three groups. Responses varied by
group: in one group, about half said they would like to
have a driverless car. In another group, most said they
wouldnt want one. Other participants in another group said they would like to
have one, as long as they could switch between automatic and manual
operation of the car.
Driverless cars would be
In every group, the following question was asked: What percentage of time
do you use your seat belt? In seven of the groups, all participants reported
using their seat belts at all times. The clear majority of respondents in the
other five groups indicated they use their seatbelts all of the time, with a
handful of participants commenting that they sometimes dont use them when
they are a passenger. Only a few said they sometimes did not use their
seatbelt, mostly when they are close to home.
In non-urban areas only, groups were asked the following: Are there
differences in the way you drive or your willingness to drive when it comes to
driving in (your specific town) or driving in large cities? About half of the
responses focused on participants difficulty of driving in cities because of the
speed and volume of traffic. Others said they simply dont drive in cities or
they time their trips in order to avoid high-traffic times.
great for the highway, if

everyone was using one. Im
skeptical of them on city
streets.
I always say This car doesnt

move until everyone has their
seatbelt on!
Urban/Non-Urban
KOA radio makes it sound
like a demolition derby is
going on and it scares me.
There were no significant differences between urban and non-urban

participant responses to the question about what would make driving easier
for them.
Latino: Unlike many other participants, there was wide agreement in this
group that newer car technologies are distracting and takes away your
concentration.
New car technologies are

distracting. They take away
your concentration.
African-American: There were no significant differences with other groups

regarding what would make driving easier.
Asian-American: Regarding seatbelts, about seventy-five percent of the
participants indicated they wear their seatbelts all of the time, which was
lower than any of the other groups.
Personal Driving Limitations

For me, its being alone [in
Westcliffe]. If you go off the
road, it could be a long time
until someone comes.
When respondents were asked if they limit their driving in any way, almost
half of their responses focused on the adjustments respondents have made to
personal driving habits. Some spoke of driving only on familiar routes, avoiding
highways, only getting on the roads during the day when traffic volume is
lower, allowing extra time to arrive at their destination, or traveling alone less
than they used to.
Weather conditions were also cited as limitations on when participants are

willing to drive. A number of people said they simply do not get on the roads
when the weather is bad, particularly when there is snow, ice, or fog. The
importance of visibility was again emphasized when night driving was
consistently mentioned as a limiting
factor to older drivers ability or
Personal Limits Put on Driving
willingness to drive.
Some respondents spoke of using
alternate transportation methods when
discussing limitations on their driving.
They reported routinely using an RTD
bus or other public bus service, light rail,
Uber, and even relocating their
residences so they could walk where
they need to go.
Urban/Non-Urban
In urban groups, some participants spoke of routinely using alternate
transportation methods when discussing limitations on their driving, such
as an RTD bus, light rail, Uber, or walking. A few said they have moved to
another location because of transportation issues. In non-urban areas, a
handful of participants said that they use the public transit bus system.
We bought a house where

we can walk everywhere or
take a bus or light rail.
Latino: About half of the participants indicated they dont drive at night.
African-American: There were no significant differences from other groups
related to personal driving limitations.
Asian-American: There were no significant differences from other groups
related to personal driving limitations.
Uber is so convenient. I love

it. They take you right where
you need to go.
Personal Driving Decisions

In order to further explore a topic from the 2015 Drive Smart Colorado
research, all 2016 groups were asked the following question: If you were
concerned about your ability to drive as well as you used to, whom would you
talk to about it? One-quarter
of the responses to this quesWho I Would Talk to About My Driving Ability
tion indicated respondents
would be most
comfortable talking to family
members or friends. As one
participant said, [I would talk
to] family and friends. When
my friends quit riding with
me, Ill know its time to quit
driving.
Participants children were
also frequently mentioned as
people they would likely talk
to about driving issues. One
participant indicated she had
already had a conversation
with her children and had
stopped driving as a result. Others said they expected their kids to initiate a
conversation about driving at some point. Others said they were selective
about which child they would talk to about the issue. A few said they believe it
is the children and familys responsibility to address the issue with an older
I would make that decision

on my own. If I thought I
would endanger others, I
would stop driving. I think I
would know.
A number of respondents reported being most comfortable simply consulting

themselves about any concerns related to driving. Some said they believe they
would simply know if they had a problem. Others said if they thought they
were endangering others on the road or if they had an accident, it would then
be time for them to make personal driving decisions. One gentleman from
Denver said he liked to drive to Trinidad to visit family, and when he could no
longer handle doing that, he would stop driving. A woman from an urban area
group said she knew there was a problem when she could no longer see the
lines on the roads at night.
Personal physicians or ophthalmologists were also
mentioned as people to consult regarding driving
issues, primarily because they could assess the
participants physical condition or vision. In stark
contrast to those participants who said they would
talk to their children, others reported their children
would be the last people they would choose to talk to
about driving issues. A few said they knew their
children were always trying to take away my keys
anyway, or believed that their children thought they
were bad drivers, while another said she didnt want
to worry her children by having the conversation with
them. Others mentioned as sources of conversation
were participants spouses and police officers.
Photo credit: PBS Newshour
Urban/Non-Urban
Id pick the child one is
level-headed and the other
thinks everything is
Alzheimers.
I told my kids, Dont ever try

to take my keys or car or well
have a problem.

participant responses to the question concerning whom they would talk to
about driving issues.
Latino: When asked whom they would talk to about concerns about their driving ability, there was a mixed response from this group. Although about onethird of the participants indicated they would talk with their children, about
one-third said they preferred to have an objective person test them and did
not want their kids to talk with them about driving.
African-American: Almost half of the responses from this group focused on

talking to both friends and family, as compared to one-quarter of the
responses from all groups. Three participants indicated they would talk with
Jesus, which was not mentioned in any other group. No one in this group
mentioned talking with a doctor or to themselves.
Asian-American: The participants in this group did not specifically say they
would talk with their children, but five participants said they would talk with
family. Two participants said their kids would tell them. When asked if there
was an expectation that they would talk to their kids or their kids would take
the lead on this discussion, most said not really.
I would talk to my husband

and daughter. They are
brutally honest.
Personal Driving Assessments

Based on the growing awareness and understanding of aging road user
issues, some Colorado agencies have been exploring the possibility of
establishing a personal driving
assessment program targeted
Response to Driver Assessment Program
to assist older/experienced
drivers in Colorado. As
conceived at this point, the
assessment would be
voluntary, it would be offered
free or at very minimal cost,
would be conducted by a third
-party professional, and the
results would be confidential,
only shared with the older
driver receiving the
assessment. This hypothetical
assessment program was
described to each of the 12
focus groups, followed by a
discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of such a program. The
likelihood of whether respondents would use the program if it was ever
offered in the future was also explored through group discussions.
Responses to the program were generally more positive than negative. In
citing advantages, about one-third of the responses focused on how the
program could generate information that would be helpful to older drivers.
One respondent simply said, The whole idea is great. Information is power.
Another pointed out that it would help people with cognitive issues who might
not be able to know otherwise if they have a problem with driving. Others said
they liked the fact that it would provide them information so that they could
The Other category

comprised 19% of responses
to this question.
You can [then] decide for

yourself. Its nice that your kids
arent deciding for you.
Personally, I want to decide
for myself.
make decisions on their own about whether they should be driving and take
the necessary planning steps. Another person said he liked the idea because
This would give you the opportunity to focus on what you can do versus what
you think you can do.
It would be good if older
drivers could be made to feel
like they are wise and
respected when they recognize
on their own that they should
give up driving.
Other advantages cited included the belief that such an assessment program
would produce good results, such as taking older/experienced drivers off the
road who should no longer be driving due to diminished skills. Other
respondents thought the program could help with personal planning for use of
alternate transportation methods.
There were also a number of concerns expressed about the program. The most
frequently mentioned were issues related to confidentiality of the assessment
results. Some participants expressed doubts that the results would truly
remain confidential. Some were afraid that, because we live in a digitized
age, the results
would somehow
become public.
Another was
concerned that her
insurance company
would know the
results.
In contrast, others
disagreed that the
results should remain
confidential. As one participant said, and many in her group agreed, I think
the results should be shared. You should have a certain level you reach or [the
results] get shared with your doctor or the DMV.
I would do the
assessment, but I disagree
that it should only be
shared with that
individual. There are some
people whose results
should be shared with the
person responsible for
your well-being, like your
Power of Attorney.
In discussing other disadvantages, a few participants raised concerns about

liability: I see it as open for a lawsuit if they dont report people who arent
capable, and You would have to have a waiver of responsibility so there is
not a lawsuit.
Rather than have such a program be voluntary as suggested, some in the focus
groups thought the assessments should be mandatory. Others thought the
assessment program shouldnt be limited to people over a certain age, but
should be required of all drivers. Still others thought it should be required for
all drivers over a certain age, with some suggesting that it be tied to ones
ability to renew a drivers license.
Other disadvantages cited included the belief that it would not be an effective
program, primarily because of its voluntary nature. As one person explained,
Its an alternative, but people who really need it wouldnt use it. Another
said, I think it might not be listened to if youre told

you shouldnt be driving. Others felt the program is
not needed because other similar programs exist,
such as AARPs driving assessment/driving course.
Finally, a few participants pointed out that there are
people who simply must drive because either they
live alone and have no one else to rely on or because
others rely on them for transportation.
When asked if they were likely to use such an
assessment program if it indeed existed, responses
were somewhat mixed, with more respondents
indicating they would likely use it than not, either by
raising their hands when asked if they would use it or by offering up specific
comments in support of the program. Some qualified their support of the
program, saying they would use it if the cost was minimal or if its free, or if
they could be assured that the results would remain confidential.
While discussing the hypothetical assessment program in one of the focus
groups in Pueblo County, one participant suggested that driver assessments be
offered through the use of driver simulators located in kiosks at shopping malls
or other community locations. Her idea was well received by her group, so
when time allowed, other subsequent groups were asked what they thought
about the kiosk. Those asked were generally supportive of the idea, some
simply saying it was a great idea, with others suggesting the kiosk be placed
at additional locations like the library,
the local senior center, or the local AARP
office. Others recommended it be
offered as an incentive to older drivers,
much like the incentive of reduced
insurance rates for those who complete
AARPs Safe Driving Course. However,
some participants were skeptical of the
kiosk idea, citing concerns with costs for
the machine and its maintenance, the computer literacy of older drivers and
their ability to use the kiosk, or as one respondent said, Every kid at the mall
would be using it and it would be hard for us to get to it.
In some cases, people have no

choice but to drive. A friend
who is 92 drives on the highway
to take her son to dialysisshe
does what she has to do.
If they have the kiosk at

places like a library or an AARP
location, so it wont get played
with and would work. So you
could trust it.
In town [Limon], there are
many people who shouldnt
still be driving, but some of
them are our Founding
Fathers so everyone just
knows their cars and pulls
over when they see them
coming.
Urban/Non-Urban
participant responses to the question concerning the driver assessment
question.
Latino: In this group, most participants thought the concept of a confidential
assessment was a good idea and indicated they would take the assessment.
One said, Youd have to face it if there was a problem.
African-American: The majority of the participants said the
confidential assessment was a good idea. However, unlike in all
other groups, there was wide agreement that if a certain level was
not reached on the assessment, the results should be shared with
a designated authority like their doctor, the DMV, or their Power
of Attorney.
Asian-American: The participants in this group all agreed that the
confidential assessment concept would be good, with one
qualifying her support, stating, Im not sure it should have an age
restriction.
Drivers License Requirements

The focus group discussions then turned to exploring older/experienced
drivers knowledge of and thoughts about the current requirements for
renewing ones Colorado
drivers license at the age of 66
Increased Licensing Requirements
or over. Very few indicated they
knew what the license
renewal requirements are for
drivers ages 66 and over. After
a review of the current
requirements by the group
facilitator, respondents were
asked what they thought about
the requirements. About half of
the comments supported
The Other category
making the renewal
requirements more stringent,
to this question.
either by requiring renewal
more often or by adding a
response time test, in addition to the existing requirement of a vision test. A

few people said they thought the current requirements were good and
sufficient.
Others expressed doubts about the practicality of increased requirements,
citing the current long lines at Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) offices.
A probing question asked, What would you think about adding the
requirement of a hearing test when your license is renewed over the age of
66? The majority of participants indicated that they believe adding a hearing
test is a good idea. Some also suggested that the requirement be expanded to
cover all who renew their license, regardless of age. As one person said,
These teenagers are blasting their radios and cant hear anything either. A
few participants said they
did not support adding the
need for a hearing test
because they thought it was
unnecessary since could
people could get hearing aids
instead. Others said they didnt believe the DMV could
handle the increased
responsibility, or they didnt
want the state to know about
their hearing capabilities.
When asked if they thought there should be mandatory retesting both
written and driving to renew a drivers license after a certain age,
participants responses were varied. About one-fourth of the comments were
supportive of retesting because they believe It would make people improve
their skills, or It might make you give up driving on your own if you think you
cant pass it. Others thought it would serve as motivation to
older drivers to keep up with driving requirements. Some
respondents qualified their support, explaining they would want
the retesting program to accommodate older drivers needs.
Some suggested having the test available to take on paper as
well as on a computer, being able to drive only in your area and
not on the highway, or providing an information booklet for
senior residents explaining the new rules before having to take
the test.
A number of respondents disagreed with the need for retesting
based on age, and instead suggested the requirement should be
based on an individuals driving record. They didnt think anyone
My uncle has a hearing aid

and drives fine. Its better if you
have all your senses, but I think
its discrimination if you do a
hearing test.
should have to be retested when renewing a drivers license unless they have
had tickets, accidents or other problems with their personal driving record.
Others suggested that retesting requirements should not be based on age,
pointing out that all people age
differently resulting in varying degrees
of abilities. As one woman in Las
Animas County said, Some people are
old at different ages. Im 94 and I only
drive in Trinidad and very carefully.
Some thought the increased
requirements should apply to all
drivers.
I dont think you should have

to take the test unless youve
had tickets or problems with
your driving record.
A smaller number of respondents

thought the retesting requirements
were unnecessary because there is
already an AARP Safe Driving Course
experienced drivers can take that
would serve the same purpose. Additionally, concerns were raised regarding
the cost of added retesting and the related customer service impacts on the
DMV. A few simply stated they didnt support additional requirements
because they would likely not be able to meet them and would have to stop
driving.
Urban/Non-Urban
participant responses to the question about licensing requirements.
Certain things youll know by

memory, but I think it would
keep you on top of things.
Assuming they dont take
away your license after the
first try, like when you get
your first license.
Latino: The majority of participants in this group thought a persons driving

record should be the primary consideration for drivers license renewal,
regardless of age. There was wide agreement that testing should only be
required if the driver has had tickets or problems with his/her driving record.
African-American: Most participants indicated they did not like the mandatory
retesting concept. One of the respondents said, Well, there have been many
younger people having these same problems we are. Everyone has the same
concerns why should seniors be singled out? A few participants liked the
concept.
Asian-American: There were a variety of concerns around mandatory

retesting. When asked if they thought the test should be dependent on their
driving record, most participants said they thought that was a good idea.
Rewards and Incentives for Older/Experienced Drivers

The topic of rewards and incentives for older/experienced drivers was also
explored. In each group, at least some of the participants were aware of and
had taken the AARP Safe Driver course. In one group, about one-third of the
participants indicated they had either taken the AARP online driving test or
had attended the course. All who knew about the AARP driving course also
knew that it was possible to get a reduced rate from most insurance
companies as a result of passing it. Those who were not aware of the AARP
course and/or online test and the related insurance incentive expressed
interest in learning more about them. A few spoke about getting a safe-driver
discount from their insurance carriers.
When asked about other incentives or rewards they would like to see provided
to older/experienced drivers, many repeated interest in insurance discounts.
One person suggested free parking to senior citizens as an incentive to take
public transportation. Another participant related that in one California
community, senior residents can take a taxi for 25 cents. Another person
simply suggested, I think if you have a good driving record, they should give
you something.
They should give free

parking to senior citizens as an
incentive to take public
transportation.
A cab company geared just for

seniors. And kind enough to
unload your groceries, too.
Transportation Alternatives
The final topic area of discussion in all of the groups focused on alternatives
to driving personal vehicles. Respondents were first asked, If you could design
the perfect transportation
alternative to driving your Available Transportation Alternatives
own vehicle, what would
it be? Of those who
offered up ideas, about
one-fourth of them
suggested a taxi or Uber
or other car options, such
as Car2go or cars in
continuous circulation
that you could ride in.
Bus service was also
frequently mentioned as
the perfect alternative,
as was Dial-a-Ride-type
services which offer van
transit, and having
volunteer drivers.
The Other category

to this question.
The second question posed to participants around this topic area was, What
kinds of transportation alternatives are available to you? Almost half of the
responses related to either bus service or Dial-a-Ride and van
services offered by local agencies in the various jurisdictions in
which the groups were held. Other alternatives mentioned less
frequently and in descending order of mention included
transportation services available to people with disabilities,
transportation services offered through senior care facilities or
local senior centers, taxis/Uber/Lyft, light rail, volunteer drivers,
delivery services, and finally, having no alternatives available.
The Rotary Club service [in

Westcliffe] is great, but it is
limited since its run by
volunteers. Its good for
appointments, but ideally
there would be a regular bus
service with a schedule.
People who cant drive need
more access.
Participants were asked both in discussions and on their individual

response forms whether they used transportation alternatives, and if so, which
they used. In the discussions, the majority of participants did not report routinely using alternative transportation, but of those who did, the great majority
of responses related to use of either a bus or light rail service, with a few
mentions of Dial-a-Ride or van services.
Through the written response forms, participants were asked if they were
aware of any local services that assist older drivers who no longer drive or who
would like to drive less. Seventy-five percent of those who responded to this
question indicated they were aware of services, with 25% indicating they were
not aware of any services. When asked which of those services they used
themselves, 39% of them reported they use none of the services, 26%
indicated they use bus or shuttles services, 10% use a van service, 6% use light
rail, 4% use taxis, and 4% use services offered by senior facilities.
For those who indicated on their response form that they do not use alternate
transportation, they were then asked the reason for their lack of use. Over
80% of those who responded reported that they are either still driving their
own vehicle or they do not need
alternate transportation. A few
responded that they like to remain
independent or they dont like the
inconvenience of using other
transportation alternatives. A handful
of participants completing the form
indicated they were not aware of any
alternate transportation options
available to them.
Finally, the following question was posed to all focus groups: How does the
lack of transportation alternatives or transportation challenges impact your
life now, or how would it impact you if you could no longer drive? The
responses were varied, practical, and often times poignant. One-quarter of
the comments focused on using other public or senior transportation
alternatives. Almost one-fifth of the responses related to the use of family
and friends for transportation support. However, that did not appear to be
a preferred option to some, either because they didnt want to have to rely
on others or because they didnt have others on whom they could
dependably rely.
In discussing other impacts of no longer being able to drive, 14% of the
comments focused on the need to relocate ones residence in order to be
closer to needed alternate transportation resources. One person said, The
day I cant drive, Im moving to assisted living, while another explained,
We would have to move to the Senior Towers in the downtown [Pueblo] area.
Somewhere where the cost is based on your income. Ten percent of the
comments dealt with the emotional costs of having to give up your keys.
One woman in Montrose County shared her situation: I have lost my
independence. I depend on my wonderful friends. My son counseled me on
changing my way of thinking to be more positive. You want to go efficiently
from point A to B, so when I go [on the bus] and it takes longer, I have to
change my attitude.
Others spoke of anticipating feelings
of depression, of feeling trapped,
and of being devastated if they were
no longer able to drive. One
participant simply stated, Id
commit suicide. Other topics less
frequently-mentioned focused on
having ones activities limited if
driving was no longer an option, or
the likelihood of increased walking/
biking, the need for increased
planning in ones life, and of the
inconvenience and isolation that
would likely result from not being
able to drive.
Photo credit: Gannett Publishing Services
For me personally, I would be

depressed. I dont want things
to cramp my style. I want to go
as much as I want and be
independent. Id hate it.
Impacts of Inability to Drive Own Vehicle
The Other category

to this question.
Urban/Non-Urban
Not surprisingly, there were clear geographic differences in the responses
offered up to the questions related to transportation alternatives. When asked
what they would design as the perfect transportation alternative, the
responses of urban participants focused primarily on taxis/
Uber or other car-related option such as Car2go, or on public transit bus service.
Non-urban participants most often suggested Dial-a-Ridetype services, followed by bus service that is provided on a
regular basis. Taxis and Uber were also mentioned by nonurban participants, as were volunteer drivers.
When talking about transportation alternatives currently
available to them, urban participants talked about the array
of alternatives they can access. Most seemed quite
comfortable with some of the newest options, such as light
rail, Uber, Lyft, and Car2go, although a few mentioned a learning curve with
light rail use. They also mentioned the availability of traditional public bus
service and transportation services for those with medical needs, such as
Access-a-Ride, as well as services offered by senior facilities or agencies.
Ill use the bus and light rail
as long as I can. Then friends
and family.
As expected, participants living in non-urban settings reported having fewer

transportation alternatives available to them. About one-third of their
comments about alternatives available to them focused on Dial-a-Ride and van
services offered by local agencies, the Area Council of Governments in their
geographic area, or their local Rotary Club. About one-quarter of the nonurban participant responses talked about the availability of bus
services, although in many instances the service was limited in hours of
operation, or in service area. Like their urban counterparts, they also
mentioned having volunteer drivers, services offered by senior facilities, taxi
and Uber services. A few non-urban residents also mentioned using delivery
services as an alternative to transportation. One participant said there were no
county services or senior services available.
When asked the final question about the impacts of no longer being able to
drive, over one-third (36%) of urban participants responses focused on the
use of public and/or senior support transportation options. One-quarter of
their responses indicated they would rely on their friends, family or services
offered by agencies in their area. Fifteen percent of the urban group responses
related to relocating their place of residence in order to access needed
transportation services, and 8% focused on the emotional impacts of no longer
being able to drive.
In non-urban locations, the most frequently mentioned transportation

alternative was friends, family or services offered by agencies in their area
(27%). The need to relocate their place of residence was the second mostmentioned alternative by non-urban participants (14%), while 11% of the
responses spoke to the emotional impacts of not being able to drive.
Latino: When asked about how the lack of transportation alternatives or
transportation challenges would impact them if they could no longer drive, six
responses (38%) were about emotional well-being or isolation concerns,
compared to 13% of all groups. One participant said, I think it would be hard
because kids are doing their own things. They are busy and give you the
feeling they dont want to [help you].
African-American: Notably, there was limited awareness and use of
transportation alternatives to driving, with no mention of bus and light rail
when asked about options. One participant said, None
that I know of. One respondent was aware of the RTD
Shoppers Special bus. Supporting the higher reliance on
friends and family noted earlier by this group, there were
no emotional well-being concerns mentioned by the
participants when asked about the impact to their life if
they could no longer drive.
Asian-American: Participants in the Asian-American
group spoke primarily about using the transportation
alternatives available to them and did not express
emotional well-being or isolation concerns if they could
no longer drive.
Huge numbers of people have

had to leave [Westcliffe] due to
lack of transportation and
access. Sooner or later as we
age, we all have to leave.
Appendices
Older/Experienced Driver Research ReportA-1
A-2Older/Experienced Driver Research Report
Appendix A:
Focus group discussion guide
Drive Smart Colorado

Older Driver / Experienced Driver Community Discussions
Discussion Guide
Facilitator opening:
Welcome, thank you for coming.
Purpose of discussion:
Find out about the issues facing older drivers
Ask about local resources that could be helpful to you
Guide development of a public safety information program for older drivers
Drive Smart Colorado/Drive Smart staffs brief introduction
Facilitator: Its important that we hear all perspectives, so if someone says something today and you have a
different perspective, please let us know what that is.
Recorder: We will keep a flip chart record of discussion. Ill take notes of what you say, but not who says it.
If I write something thats different from what you intend, please let me know.
Facilitator: We will prepare a report for Drive Smart Colorado and Drive Smart that includes the consistent
themes from our discussion as well as the verbatim notes of our discussions with you.
Our discussion with you will last about an hour-and-a-half. Are you ready to begin?
You have a notecard and a pen in front of you. Please write a few words to describe your biggest driving
challenge since turning age 65.
Around-the-room: Please give us your name, where you live, and what you wrote on your card.
Is there anything that would make driving easier for you?
Is there anything about road design that would help?
Do you need any help with the car itself (e.g. mirrors, seatbelts, steering wheel adjustment)?
What percentage of the time do you use your seatbelt?
Are there technology improvements to vehicles that would make a difference?
Probe in rural areas: Are there differences in the way you drive or your willingness to drive when it comes to
driving in and around (location) or driving in larger cities? If so, what are those differences?
Do you limit your driving in any way?
If you were concerned about your ability to drive as well as you used to, who would you talk to about it?
What is your familys expectation about your childrens role in helping their parents with driver safety issues?
For those who are concerned about their own driving ability, its currently possible to get a driving assessment
but its expensive and is offered in very few areas of the state. An assessment is also sometimes ordered by a
personal physician in order to determine if a patients drivers license should be renewed.
Some agencies in the state are currently working to develop a new kind of driving assessment. This assessment
would be totally voluntary, would be offered free or at very minimal cost, would be conducted by a third-party
professional, and the results would be shared only with the individual driver who requested the assessment. It
would be a way for older drivers to have personal peace of mind about their driving abilities.
What do you think about a program like that? What are the advantages you see to it? The disadvantages?
If it were offered, do you think you or people you know would take advantage of it? Why / why not?
What do you know about the licensing requirements for older drivers? (Current requirements: no electronic
renewal for drivers 66 and over; if renewing by mail, 66+ must submit a signed form from an optometrist or
ophthalmologist that they have the requisite visual acuity set by regulation)
How did you learn about these requirements? What do you think about them?
Probe: What would you think about adding the requirement of a hearing test when your license is
renewed over the age of 66?
Probe: People participating in a recent survey of older driver issues said they think there should be
mandatory retesting to renew a persons driver's license after a certain age. What do you think about
that?
What do you think about rewards and incentives for older drivers? (For example, reduced insurance rates if
you pass a safe driver course or participate in a voluntary driver assessment, or if you complete a driver
simulation to see if your reflexes have slowed)
Can you think of other incentives?
If you could design the perfect transportation alternative to driving your own vehicle, what would it be?
What kinds of transportation alternatives are available to you?

How many of you use those alternatives? Why / why not?
Have you heard about any alternatives from other areas that you like?
How does the lack of transportation alternatives or transportation challenges impact your life now, or how
would it impact you if you could no longer drive?
Thank you for a great discussion. We appreciate your experience, your insights and wisdom and your
willingness to share you time with us. You did a great job!
We have one more thing to ask of you today: would you please take a minute to fill out a response form
before you leave?
Appendix B:
Individual Response Form
Drive Smart Colorado

Older / Experienced Drivers Community Discussion
Response Form
Are you aware of any local services that assist older residents who no longer drive or who would like to drive
less?
If yes:
Which if any of those services do you use yourself?
If you dont use any of the services, why not?
If no:
How would you like to get information about those services?
Please place a checkmark on your age range below:

____under 65
____65-70
____71-75
____75-80
___81-85
____86 or over
Is there anything else you would like us to know about your experience as an older adult driver?
If you would like more information about any of the programs or resources discussed today, please contact
(contact information for staff of either Drive Smart Colorado or Drive Smart inserted here).
Thank you for coming!


Summary Report of Experienced Driver Focus Groups Findings May 2016

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Summary Report of Experienced Driver Focus Groups Findings May 2016

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Focus Group Research on

Older/Experienced Driver Issues

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Older/Experienced Driver Focus Groups

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Summary of Findings ......................................................................................... 15

Appendices ...................................................................................................... A-1

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Golden Recreation Center

Older/Experienced Driver Research Report1

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In Colorado, crashes involving

Research Type and Scope

4Older/Experienced Driver Research Report

All participants were asked to

Pueblo Counties were comprised primarily of residents living in urban settings;

A separate Supplemental Report provides all focus group responses, including:

All verbatim discussion responses organized and analyzed by question;

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I dont care if youre like an

We havent gone through

Older/Experienced Driver Research Report7

Need for Information

Get practical information on

Assessment of Drivers Skills

It might be good to help you

No, if you have a good

I live up in the mountains. If I

Interest in and support of increased drivers license requirements for people

More people would ride the

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I would hope that I would be

There Is a Void In Information

Many indicated they prefer to receive information through email, social

Proactive Programs Are Welcomed

Across all groups, a significant number of participants acknowledged the

It was important to many participants that assessments be affordable and

Older/Experienced Driver Research Report11

Many participants were familiar with the Association of Retired

Education Is Needed on Infrastructure Improvements

Frustration with roadway improvements such as roundabouts, vehicle/

Many older/experienced drivers reported limiting their exposure to

Increased Licensing Requirements? No Consensus

Discussions of increased licensing requirements for older/experienced

Some participants qualified their support: they want any testing

The majority of participants were supportive of a hearing test, with many

Some suggested creating a drivers license with restrictions designed

In personal vehicles, participants said they need help with eliminating

Nighttime and daytime roadway visibility improvements were requested

There Is An Openness to New Technology

Participants were generally interested in and open to the use of new

Having information about how to respond to new roadway technologies,

A few participants in urban groups expressed interest in having tutorials

Alternatives Can Lessen the Blow

The contemplation of no longer being able to drive ones own vehicle is

There is significant interest in non-urban locations for regular and reliable

In both urban and non-urban locations, participants cited older/

Older/Experienced Driver Research Report13

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14Older/Experienced Driver Research Report

Summary of Findings by Question

My biggest challenge is not

Other frequently-mentioned challenges related to roadway visibility issues,