Drive aware training: A computerized training program for older drivers' detection of road hazards

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Human Factors Engineering
• Cognitive Psychology

Background:

• Older drivers face increased crash risks due to declining hazard detection.
• Traditional interventions like on-road training are costly and limited; simulator training can cause sickness.
• Computerized cognitive training offers a cost-effective and accessible alternative for older drivers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a newly developed computerized cognitive training program focused on hazard detection.
• To assess improvements in older drivers' ability to detect road hazards using the Drive Aware Task.
• To determine if interactive computer-based training enhances simulated driving performance.

Main Methods:

• A matched-pair design involved nine triads of older drivers (65+ years) with similar baseline performance and gender.
• Participants were randomly assigned to active training, passive video training, or a no-contact control group.
• Hazard detection and simulated driving performance were measured pre- and post-intervention.

Main Results:

• The active training group demonstrated significant improvements in both the computerized hazard detection task and simulated driving.
• The passive training group showed only marginal effects, while the control group exhibited no significant changes.
• Post-training surveys indicated that older drivers found the Drive Aware training program acceptable.

Conclusions:

• The computerized Drive Aware training program is a promising tool for improving older drivers' hazard detection.
• This intervention has the potential for use in preventing accidents and supporting older drivers.
• Further research is recommended to explore effectiveness in diverse populations and long-term impacts.