In recent years, there has been more focus on the classes elderly drivers in Japan take when renewing their driver’s license (70-74 years of age) and cognitive function tests for those who are 75 years and older. Attention has also been given to the license return system as well.
Cognitive function tests for those 75 years and older are a fill-in type questionnaire that measures memory and judgement which consists of the following 3 examinations:
1) Time orientation: answering questions about the date, day, time and so forth.
2) ‘Clue play’ by remembering 16 kinds of illustrations where the score is based on how many the individual remembers.
3) Clock depiction: drawing a clock face and hands that represents a specified time.
Based on the examination score, if the “memory and judgment” are low, the individual has a risk of dementia; if the score is somewhat low, then there is a risk of cognitive function deterioration.
Those who score low will either receive a temporary aptitude test (diagnosed by a specialist) or a medical certificate from a doctor must be submitted.
If an individual is diagnosed with dementia, their driver’s license may be canceled or suspended after legal proceedings. Also, if a driver over the age of 75 commits a specific traffic violation such as ignoring a signal, he or she will receive a cognitive function test.