Regarding the article - well said!
But yes, as DDH says, there's more to it than just the elderly. I just went through getting my teenage son started driving. Personally, I'm really not in favor of unrestricted driving until at least age 18. Teach them, supervise them, and give them priviledges gradually - don't make it about convenience. Unfortunately, that seems to be the main concern about driving priviledges - at any age. It should be about getting there, but safely.
Driving is a huge responsibility. Cycling carries responsibility, too. The laws need to be enforced and everyone needs to take responsibility for the damage they can do, period.
Deb