New research from the University of East Anglia (UEA) has found that Sat Nav systems and GPS technology are helping older drivers stay on the road for longer.

More time behind the wheel means older people are maintaining their independence and quality of life well into their later years.

Where are we heading?

A new study published in PLOS Digital Health reveals that drivers over the age of 65 are benefitting in a big way from sat nav technology.

Those who struggle with a sense of direction are more likely to rely on GPS systems, and as a result, tend to drive more frequently than those who don’t use such tools.

Researchers say this technology plays a crucial role in offsetting the natural cognitive decline that can come with ageing, particularly in relation to spatial awareness and memory.

“Driving is the preferred mode of transport for most older adults, and it’s vital for preserving independence, wellbeing, and cognitive health as we age,” said Professor Michael Hornberger from UEA’s Norwich Medical School.

“But with age, people often experience a decline in spatial abilities, which can cause them to limit or even give up driving.”

Take the next left

The study involved 895 UK drivers aged 65 and above, with an average age of 71.

Participants were asked about their driving habits, their sense of direction, and how often they used GPS or Sat Nav systems.

They also completed online tests assessing their memory and spatial skills.

This research found that the majority of older drivers use Sat Navs — especially when travelling to unfamiliar places.

Those who reported a weaker sense of direction were particularly reliant on navigation aids.

However, the most significant finding was that older adults who regularly use GPS technology drove more often, suggesting that these tools help them overcome the challenges of cognitive ageing and maintain their mobility.

Follow the road right

Dr Sol Morrissey from UEA’s School of Health Sciences, the lead author of the study, explained: “We know that GPS technology eases the mental load of navigating, which can be especially helpful for older drivers. What this study shows is that access to Sat Navs isn’t just a convenience — it’s a practical solution that supports safe, continued driving for older adults.”

Driving later in life is closely linked to mental and physical wellbeing.

It enables people to attend social activities, visit family, go shopping, and attend medical appointments without depending on others.

Losing the ability to drive can lead to increased isolation and even impact mental health.

Carry on straight ahead

Since December 2017, satellite navigation (Sat Nav) systems have been officially included as part of the UK practical driving test.

The move was designed to reflect modern driving habits and help learners develop real-world skills for life on the road.

Introduced by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), it aimed to ensure that the test better mirrors the way people drive today.

According to the DVSA, over 70% of UK drivers regularly use a Sat Nav or navigation app like Google Maps or Waze when driving — making it a logical step to include this technology in the driving test.

You have reached your destination

The research was carried out in collaboration with the University of Exeter, Oxford Brookes University, Chester Wellness Centre, and the University of Leeds.

It was funded by the Department for Transport and supported by the National Institute of Health and Care Research (NIHR) Applied Research Collaboration (ARC) East of England.

With the UK’s population continuing to age, the findings highlight the importance of supporting older drivers through accessible, easy-to-use navigation technology.

As Prof Hornberger concludes: “Helping older people use GPS tools confidently could be key to keeping them independent, mobile, and connected — safely — for longer.”