Relationship between Driving Ability and Physical Fitness Factors in Older Adults: A Multiple Linear Regression Analysis

Akihiko Katayama (), Takenori Abe, Ayako Hase and Nobuyuki Miyatake
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Akihiko Katayama: Faculty of Sociology, Shikoku Gakuin University, Zentsuji-shi 765-8505, Kagawa, Japan
Takenori Abe: Promoting Exercise Association in Kagawa, Marugame-shi 763-0074, Kagawa, Japan
Ayako Hase: Department of Clinical Psychology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Kita-gun 761-0793, Kagawa, Japan
Nobuyuki Miyatake: Department of Hygiene, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Kita-gun 761-0793, Kagawa, Japan

IJERPH, 2024, vol. 21, issue 6, 1-12

Abstract: The number of older drivers is increasing with the aging population; this has led to concerns about traffic accidents involving older drivers. For older adults, the automobile is not just a means of transportation, but a life necessity that promotes social activities and maintains and improves health-related quality of life. In this study, we aimed to clarify the relationship between driving ability and physical fitness factors among 70 older adult drivers using a single regression analysis and multiple regression models adjusted for age, sex, and other factors. Driving ability was evaluated by driving an actual car on an ordinary road without a simulator. The single regression analysis revealed no relationship between driving ability and any physical fitness factor. In the multiple regression model analysis, only grip strength was an important explanatory factor; however, the driving ability scores decreased as grip strength scores increased. By clarifying the physical fitness factors that influence the maintenance and improvement of driving ability, it is possible to propose more efficient intervention programs to maintain and improve driving ability. We could not identify the relevant physical fitness factors in this study; therefore, further research is required to improve safe driving among older adults.

Keywords: driving ability; physical fitness factors; older adults (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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