Our driving skills, abilities and confidence can change over time, often as a result of our changing bodies, minds, personal circumstances and life experiences. However, it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest driving techniques and safety practices to ensure our continued roadworthiness.
That’s where mature driver refresher lessons come in. These personalised courses are designed to help older drivers enhance their driving skills, improve their confidence, with a view to maintaining their independence for longer.
Please note: these are refresher lessons only, not Driving Mobility Assessments. If you’ve recently been advised to stop driving you will need to consult with your healthcare professional and have been assessed and deemed fit to drive.
Reduced Risk of Accidents
A study by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents found drivers aged 70+ were 3.8 times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash than 20-29yr olds. Refresher lessons can help improve road awareness, hazard perception and decision-making skills, reducing this risk.
Adjust to Life Changes
Changes in personal circumstances, such as the loss of a partner who used to do the majority of driving, or a switch to a different vehicle, can affect ones confidence behind the wheel.
Enhanced Confidence
Changes in health, eyesight, hearing, flexibility and reaction times will impact us all as we age. Refresher lessons focus in on these issues, help find solutions and build confidence.
Updated Driving Techniques
Road rules and driving techniques evolve over time. Stay abreast of these changes and ensure you’re driving in the safest and most efficient way possible.
Preparations for Driving retirement
Most of us will reach a point where the challenges posed by our ageing bodies or minds will ultimately result in the very difficult decision to retire from driving. Your session will touch on this sensitive issue and help you explore solutions to help recognise and plan for the transition.
What Can You Expect from Mature Driver Refresher Lessons?
They will involve a combination of discussions at the roadside and practical driving skills. You will learn about the latest driving techniques, road rules, and safety advice. The practical sessions will allow you to apply these skills in real-world driving situation.
The length and content of your lessons will be tailored to your individual needs, goals and driving experience. I will assess your current driving skills and develop a personalised program to help you reach your goals.
FAQs
What do I need to start?
You will have a full driving licence and be able to read a number plate from 20m.
Have not been told by a doctor or healthcare professional not to drive.
Will I have the lesson in my own car?
You can have a lesson in your own car, but you’ll need to make sure that your insurance covers you for paid tuition. The manual, dual-control driving school car is, of course, available for your use.
How much will it cost?
Lessons are charged at the 1.5hr rate, you may only need 1 lesson to reach your goal, or you may feel you’d benefit from more than one lesson, it’s entirely dependent on your needs and goals.
Will you tell me I need to stop driving?
No, these are driver refresher lessons, they are not Driving Mobility Assessments. However, I will be honest with you and may signpost you to other professionals for further advice.