New research points to how technology can extend older drivers’ safe years behind the wheel, and some of the findings are surprising. Currently, the significant push in driver assistance is towards removing from the driver those tasks — like emergency crash-avoidance maneuvers — that can be done quicker, better, and more reliably by automated systems. But it may turn out that older drivers are helped more by enhanced driver information systems, rather than enhanced car-control systems. Driving is a significant factor in seniors’ real and perceived independence, freedom, and quality of life. Cars that drive themselves, even in part, may tend to offend older drivers who feel the need to remain in control. The new research identified ideas for in-car information systems to help compensate for seniors’ slower reaction times. Recommendations include a head-up display to show road sign information based on GPS data so the driver need not watch the road side, and an audio speedometer so there’s less need to scrutinise the car’s instrument cluster periodically.
Dr. Charles Musselwhite, who led the research, says it reveals issues that have heretofore been ignored by car designers:
“The current emphasis on technologies which take over part of the driving task may end up deterring older drivers. Better in-car information systems could help them drive safely and ensure they want to keep driving.”
Dr Musselwhite is Senior lecturer in Traffic and Transport Psychology at the University of the West of England.
