The Australian Medical Association Queensland (AMAQ) has told the ABC that people are going to a different doctor or medical practice – particularly in country areas where there’s inadequate transport – to find a GP who will sign off on them keeping their driver’s licence.

Drivers over 75 must have a medical certificate to keep driving, but according to the story, GPs say they are being pressured to test patients’ eyesight, frailty and brain function in less than 15 minutes.

It is understandable why many drivers would be reluctant to give up their licenses particularly if you live in areas where there few transport options available meaning your ability to live independently and move around is instantly gone.

Of course people should take responsibility for their driving and stop if they can’t do so safely but if we want older drivers to stay off the road and stay engaged with their community, we need to offer more incentives.

That means ensuring bus routes travel past retirement villages and other areas with a high population of seniors.

Thinking outside the square may be the way to go with the NSW Government announcing it will trial driverless buses in the regional cities of Coffs Harbour and Armidale before the end of 2018. A local retirement village will be involved in the Coffs trial.