Factors Influencing Transitions from Driver to Non-Driver: Evidence from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (CLSA)

Authors:

Arne Stinchcombe, Shawna Hopper, Sylvain Gagnon, & Michel Bédard 

Abstract:

Driving enables older adults to maintain independence and community mobility. Driving plays a pivotal role in the ability to engage in activities, socialize, run errands, and access health care services; yet many people eventually stop driving. This study investigates factors that contribute to transitions from driver to non-driver (i.e., driving status) using data from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (CLSA). Among participants aged 45-85 who reported driving at baseline (n = 30,901), 1.65 percent (n = 510) had stopped driving at follow-up (three years later). Logistic regression identified predictors of this transition, including older age, female sex, lower income, urban residence, poorer self-rated health, difficulties with activities of daily living, low memory scores, and vision problems. These findings highlight the interplay of physical, cognitive, and environmental factors in driving cessation. This research advances understanding of mobility transitions in later life and informs targeted strategies to support older adults as they plan for driving retirement.

Full Citation:

Stinchcombe, A., Hopper, S., Gagnon, S., & Bédard, M. (2025). Factors Influencing Transitions from Driver to Non-Driver: Evidence from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (CLSA). Canadian journal on aging = La revue canadienne du vieillissement, 44(4), 565–571. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0714980825100184