Using Automated Vehicle Technologies With Older Adults: A Mixed-Methods Study

Stephen Isbel*, Stephanie Mulhall, Diane Gibson

*Corresponding author for this work

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

    4 Citations (Scopus)

    Abstract

    When older adults’ driving abilities decline, automated driving technologies may improve community mobility, engagement, and independence. Most previous research has focused on older persons’ attitudes rather than their use of automated driving technologies. This study examined older Australians’ perceptions and experience of automated vehicle technologies before, during, and after a real-life driving experience, focusing on ease of use, usefulness, safety, acceptance, trust, and confidence. This mixed-methods study included observation of a 6-km test drive using a partially automated vehicle, pre- and post-drive questionnaires, and a post-drive semi-structured interview. Most participants reported positive perceptions and experiences before, during, and after the test drive. Visual analysis of pre/postresponses revealed divergent reactions to the test drive, consistent with the heterogeneity of the older population. Automated driving technologies have potential to contribute to mobility at older ages. Larger-scale studies including actual driving experiences are recommended.

    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)189-198
    Number of pages10
    JournalOTJR: Occupational Therapy Journal of Research
    Volume42
    Issue number3
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - Jul 2022

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