TITLE:
Support Systems Designed for Older Drivers to Achieve Safe and Comfortable Driving
AUTHORS:
Anna Bjelkemyr, Tania Dukic, Rachel Owens, Torbjorn Falkmer, Hoe C. Lee
KEYWORDS:
Older Driver; Safe Mobility; Self-Regulation; Driver Cessation; Support System
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Transportation Technologies,
Vol.3 No.4,
October
11,
2013
ABSTRACT: Background: The number of older people is increasing. Many of them expect to maintain a
rich social life and to continue driving at an older age. Objective: The present study investigates the mechanisms behind
self-regulation and driving cessation in order to suggest development of
support systems to prolong older drivers’ safe mobility. Method: Three focus groups were conducted with 19 older active
drivers aged 65+ who were divided according to annual mileage driven. Results: A content analysis revealed
broad self-regulatory behaviour as already reported in the literature, e.g., avoiding driving at rush hour and at night.
The participants also reported difficulty in finding the way to their final
destination and an increasing need to plan their travelling. Co-piloting was a
behaviour applied by couples to cope with difficulties encountered in traffic.
A large part of the discussion was focused on emerging feelings of stress, anxiety
and fear when driving in recent years, a feeling induced by external factors
e.g., other road users’ behaviour, traffic density or high speed. Apart from
health problems, high levels of stress could explain driving cessation,
especially for women. An increased feeling of safety and comfort could be achieved by an increased use of
support systems specifically designed to respond to older drivers’ needs. Conclusion: Support systems for older
drivers should increase comfort and decrease their stress levels. New systems,
such as co-pilot function and more developed Global Positioning System (GPS)
supporting of the entire travel from door to door, should be developed to
respond to the market needs.