A Simple Shoulder Reference Method for Older Drivers
Many older drivers tell us:
“I feel too close to the left.”
“I worry I might cross the centre line.”
“I don’t feel as confident keeping straight.”
In most situations, the vehicle is not actually off-centre.
The issue is often visual perception, not steering skill.
As we age, small changes in depth perception, contrast sensitivity and spatial awareness can affect how we judge distance (Australian Government Department of Infrastructure, 2023; Austroads, 2022). This does not mean someone is unsafe — it simply means the brain processes visual information differently.
Instead of guessing where the car is, we can use a simple body-based reference method.
The Common Mistake: Watching the Line
Many drivers focus directly on:
- The left edge line
- The centre line
- The kerb
When we stare at a line beside the car, it can appear closer than it really is.
The brain magnifies what we fixate on.
And remember:
The car naturally follows your eyes.
If you keep looking at the left line, the steering may slowly drift left.
The Shoulder Reference Method
In South Australia, we sit on the right side of the vehicle.
Try this:
- Sit upright and relaxed.
- Adjust your seat so you are not leaning left.
- Look well ahead — about 8–10 seconds forward.
- Imagine a straight line extending forward from your right shoulder.
- Keep that imaginary line aligned with the centre of your lane.
You are not chasing the road markings.
You are maintaining a mental centre path.
Your shoulder stays in a fixed position.
The road lines visually move due to perspective — your body does not.
This makes judgement more stable.
Why This Helps Older Drivers
Research shows that with age:
- Visual processing speed may slow slightly
- Peripheral awareness may narrow
- Sensitivity to contrast may reduce (Austroads, 2022)
Using a body-based reference:
- Reduces over-correction
- Reduces steering tension
- Improves smooth lane control
- Increases confidence
It is especially helpful:
- On narrow suburban roads
- When passing parked vehicles
- During gentle curves
- On longer drives where fatigue may affect concentration
A Simple Practice Exercise
On a quiet street:
- Maintain steady speed
- Relax your grip on the steering wheel
- Look ahead, not down
- Notice if the vehicle stays stable
If you find yourself constantly correcting, you may be over-focusing on road edges.
When to Seek Support
If drifting continues, consider:
- A professional refresher session
- A posture and seat adjustment review
- A vision test
- A structured driving assessment
Small perception adjustments can make a significant difference.
Safe driving is not about perfection.
It is about adapting wisely and staying confident.
References
Australian Government Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications (2023) Assessing Fitness to Drive for Commercial and Private Vehicle Drivers. Canberra: Austroads.
Austroads (2022) Assessing Fitness to Drive: Medical Standards for Licensing and Clinical Management Guidelines. Sydney: Austroads Ltd.
Disclaimer
This article is provided by Adelaide Senior Road & Health Association Inc. for general educational purposes only.
Driving requirements in South Australia are regulated by the Department for Infrastructure and Transport (DIT). Individual licensing conditions, medical reviews, and fitness-to-drive assessments are determined by relevant authorities and medical professionals.
If you have been asked to complete a medical review, driving assessment, or licence renewal process, please follow official instructions provided by DIT and consult your GP or specialist where required.
This article does not replace professional medical advice, formal driving assessments, or legal licensing requirements.