Aim
This systematic review and meta-synthesis aimed to identify and understand the factors that influence older adults’ planning for driving retirement, with a focus on the emotional, social, and contextual drivers of decision-making.
Methods
A systematic search was conducted using PRISMA guidelines across four databases (PubMed, Scopus, Global Health, and CINAHL), covering studies published between 2000 and 2021. Thirteen studies met inclusion criteria, with one excluded after quality appraisal, resulting in 12 qualitative or mixed-method studies.
A thematic meta-synthesis was undertaken, using inductive coding and grouping of themes, guided by the Social-Ecological Model (SEM). This enabled identification of factors across individual, interpersonal, environmental, and policy levels.
Key findings:
- Planning for driving retirement is influenced by multiple interconnected factors across SEM levels.
- At the individual level, emotions, identity, and desire for independence (e.g., maintaining control) play a major role.
- At the interpersonal level, family, friends, and healthcare professionals strongly influence decision-making.
- At the environmental and policy levels, access to alternative transport and broader system supports shape planning.
- Barriers include fear of losing independence and becoming a burden, while facilitators include supportive relationships and access to viable transport options.
Implications:
Findings highlight the need for multi-level, holistic approaches to support planning for driving retirement. Interventions should not focus solely on the individual, but also address family dynamics, healthcare engagement, and transport systems. Early, supportive conversations and improved access to alternative transport options are critical to enabling proactive planning and reducing negative outcomes associated with driving cessation.