Accident statistics show that drivers over the age of 55 and in particular those over the age of 70 are over represented in multi-vehicle accidents at junctions. Research indicates that this is the result of cognitive limitations. At the same time, social changes have made it increasingly disadvantageous not to have access to a car, and the expectations and requirement of future cohorts of elderly drivers to continue driving well into old age will be even greater than that of previous years. Therefore, it is increasingly important that investigations are conducted to increase understanding of age-related cognitive abilities and driving performance, to enable issues regarding both road safety and mobility of older drivers to be addressed. The aim of this study is to improve our understanding of age related driving performance by developing a model of cognition in complex road situations, for the ageing driver. The study takes a dynamic approach in which participants are assessed using tests of cognitive function in context during simulated driving. Research outcomes will inform automotive design tools for new assistive technologies. This should encourage safer driving and sustained mobility for older drivers. (A)
Abstract