Motorcycle Riding-Related Functional Abilities among Older Adults and Recommendations for Mitigating Risk-Related Problems on Rural Community Roads in Ubon Ratchathani Province, Thailand

Vollständiger Abstract

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This study aims to assess motorcycle riding-related functional abilities among older adults and identify high-risk road locations in rural communities of Ubon Ratchathani Province, Thailand, to prevent accidents involving older motorcycle riders. The study administered a driving competency test to 202 older adults, modeled after the Thai driving license test, and required participants to complete a questionnaire. Fifty network partners participated in a focus group to identify potential risks and develop solutions. The data was evaluated using frequency and percentage distribution, while image display and content analysis were employed to interpret opinions about locations that pose risks for motorcycle accidents. The results indicated that 81.2% of older adults require improved driving functional abilities. The failed tests were the brake pedal reaction and wide vision tests, with failure rates of 61.4% and 60.9%, respectively. Additionally, 72.3% of older adults do not possess a driver's license, 50.0% hold a lifetime motorcycle license, 41.6% of motorcycles driven by older adults are either uninsured or have expired under the Motor Vehicle Accident Victims Protection Act, and 64.9% of older adults do not wear helmets while driving. The focus group activity identified seven main high-risk points on the roadway. Each of the seven high-risk zones is in villages where the older adults comprise more than 10 percent of the population. The recommendations include the improvement of road condition and the establishment of automated driving transportation services within the operational structure of local government or similar bodies to enhance individual and public safety.