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Cognitive-motor abilities of the elderly driver
1Department of Exercise Science, Arizona State University, Tempe 85287.
Human Factors
|February 1, 1992
Summary
As people age, their motor performance, including movement initiation and execution, declines. This age-related slowing and reduced precision in movement may negatively impact driving skills in older adults.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Human Factors Engineering
- Motor Control
Background:
- Aging is associated with changes in motor performance.
- Driving is a complex motor task crucial for older adults' independence.
- Understanding age-related motor deficits is vital for road safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing literature on the effects of age on motor performance relevant to driving behavior.
- To analyze age-related differences in movement initiation and execution.
- To explore how these motor changes may impair driving skills in older adults.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies examining age and motor performance.
- Analysis of studies focusing on movement initiation (response preparation, selection, programming, complexity).
- Examination of studies on movement execution (speed, force, coordination, sensory-motor integration).
Main Results:
- Older adults demonstrate slower movement initiation and execution compared to younger adults.
- Reduced precision in movement control was observed with increasing age.
- Age-related declines in speed, force production, coordination, and sensory-motor integration were identified.
Conclusions:
- Age-related declines in motor performance, specifically slower and less precise movements, are likely contributors to impaired driving skills in older adults.
- Laboratory findings suggest potential mechanisms by which aging impacts driving.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the relationship between aging, motor control, and driving safety.