Driving safety improves after individualized training: An RCT involving older drivers in an urban area |
| |
| Authors: | S Gagnon A Stinchcombe M Curtis M Kateb J Polgar M M Porter |
| |
| Institution: | 1. School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada;2. Faculty of Human Sciences, Saint Paul University (Ottawa), Ottawa, Ontario, Canada;3. School of Occupational Therapy, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada;4. Centre on Aging, and Faculty of Kinesiology and Recreation Management, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada |
| |
| Abstract: | Objective: This study aimed to reproduce the results of a previous investigation on the safety benefits of individualized training for older drivers. We modified our method to address validity and generalizability issues.Methods: Older drivers were randomly assigned to one of the 3 arms: (1) education alone, (2) education?+?on road training, and (3) education?+?on road?+?simulator training. Older drivers were recruited from a larger urban community. At the pre- and posttests (separated by 4 to 8 weeks) participants followed driving directions using a Global Positioning System (GPS) navigation system.Results: Our findings support the positive influence of individualized on-road training for urban-dwelling older drivers. Overall, driving safety improved among drivers who received on-road training over those who were only exposed to an education session, F(1, 40) = 11.66, P = .001 (26% reduction in total unsafe driving actions UDAs]). Statistically significant improvements were observed on observation UDAs (e.g., scanning at intersections, etc.), compliance UDAs (e.g., incomplete stop), and procedural UDAs (e.g., position in lane).Conclusion: This study adds to the growing evidence base in support of individualized older driver training to optimize older drivers’ safety and promote continued safe driving. |
| |
| Keywords: | Older drivers aging driver safety training education |
|
|
