Safety through Disruption (SAFE-D) University Transportation Center (UTC)

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Browsing Safety through Disruption (SAFE-D) University Transportation Center (UTC) by Subject "Aging"

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    Examining Senior Drivers Adaptation to Mixed Level Automated Vehicles: A Naturalistic Study
    Liang, Dan; Antin, Jonathan F.; Lau, Nathan; Stulce, Kelly E.; Baker, Stephanie Ann; Wotring, Brian (SAFE-D: Safety Through Disruption National University Transportation Center, 2019-08)
    Advances in the development of advanced vehicle technologies (AVTs), such as blind spot alerts, lane keep assist,lane alert, and adaptive cruise control, can benefit senior drivers by reducing exposure to hazards andcompensating for diminished cognitive abilities sometimes seen in this population. However, the degree to whichsuch benefits can be realized in this vulnerable population depends largely on the degree to which senior driverswill accept, adopt, and adapt to these features. This study investigated how 18 seniors, aged 70–79, accepted,trusted, and used mixed-function AVTs when provided an AVT-equipped vehicle to drive as they desired for a 6-week period. Researchers assessed attitudes and the effect of exposure via before-and-after exposure surveys, briefweekly check-in surveys during the driving exposure period, and focus group sessions conducted after theconclusion of the driving exposure period. Analyses revealed that seniors prefer technologies that inform, such asblind spot alert, over those that assert independent control over the vehicle, such as lane keep assist. Increasedconfidence in and willingness to use AVTs correlated positively with exposure, with adequate time for orientationand appropriate user documentation emerging as key factors determining senior drivers’ acceptance.
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    Older Drivers and Transportation Network Companies: Investigating Opportunities for Increased Safety and Improved Mobility
    Tooley, Melissa; Zmud, Johanna; Ettelman, Benjamin L.; Moran, Maarit M.; Higgins, Laura L.; Shortz, Ashley; Wheeler, Eric (SAFE-D: Safety Through Disruption National University Transportation Center, 2019-06)
    Transportation network companies (TNCs) such as Uber and Lyft offer an increasingly popular alternative to driving a personal vehicle. This project investigated the potential of TNCs to increase the safety and enhance the mobility of older adults who are experiencing a decline in driving ability. Interviews with commercial and non-profit transportation providers and focus groups of adults ranging from age 65 to over 85 identified attitudes and perceptions toward TNCs and related services targeting senior adults, as well as ongoing barriers to TNC use by this demographic. Barriers include insufficient familiarity and comfort with using smartphone applications, a lack of knowledge among older adults about how TNCs operate, and lack of availability of TNC services in many rural areas. Increased availability of TNC services targeted toward older adults may help to overcome some of these barriers. The project team developed outreach and education materials for older adults on how to access and use TNC services.