Driving: supplementary eye test for over 65s

In order to prevent road accidents linked to health conditions, and in particular to age-related eye diseases, the Italian Minister of Health, Girolamo Sirchia, has requested the Health Council for an opinion on the inclusion in eye tests for drivers of a soft-light examination to reveal the presence of cataract, a disease that considerably reduces vision acuity.

Given that around 90% of over 65 year-olds have cataract, the Health Council considered that, within the times envisaged by the current law, it would be appropriate for drivers in that age group to take a supplementary eye test that includes an assessment of contrast sensitivity by scientifically standardized tests.

On the basis of Health Council's opinion, Sirchia has requested the Directorate General for Prevention and the Ministry's Legislative Office to take the necessary steps to amend the current law.

(Source: Salute Europa)