Grey Power Mercury Bay is welcoming new national guidance for doctors on the use of cognitive testing for older drivers, describing it as an important step towards a fairer and more consistent licence renewal process.
The guidance follows more than two years of determined advocacy by Grey Power New Zealand, working with NZ Transport Agency (NZTA), politicians and the medical profession to ensure driving assessments for older New Zealanders are based on evidence rather than routine age-based testing.
This announcement marks the successful conclusion of that advocacy and is welcome news for older drivers throughout New Zealand. The new guidance reflects the findings of an independent University of Auckland review, which concluded that, for older people who are physically and mentally healthy, current evidence does not support the routine use of cognitive assessments as part of fitness-to-drive evaluations.
Instead, doctors are encouraged to assess a person’s overall health, medical history, vision, physical abilities and clinical judgement, rather than relying on a single cognitive screening test. Where genuine concerns exist, further assessment, including an on-road safety test or occupational therapy driving assessment, may still be appropriate.
Grey Power Mercury Bay President Linda Cholmondeley Smith said the announcement would provide reassurance for many local seniors. “For many older drivers, renewing their licence has become a source of unnecessary anxiety. This new guidance recognises that one test cannot determine whether someone is a safe driver. It supports a more balanced approach that considers the whole person.”
“Our members have always supported appropriate assessments where there are genuine medical concerns. What they have objected to is routine cognitive testing simply because someone has reached a certain age.” Mrs. Cholmondeley Smith said the outcome demonstrated what constructive advocacy could achieve.
“We congratulate Grey Power New Zealand, and everyone involved in achieving this important outcome. It represents a fairer, more consistent and evidence-based approach that protects road safety while treating older New Zealanders with respect and dignity.”
Linda Cholmondeley Smith
President, Grey Power Mercury Bay
