Relationship between Online Driving Aptitude Assessment and On-Road Driving Evaluation for Older Drivers
-Study on Driver Characteristics for Delaying Driving Cessation (49)-

Rin Ito･Shunji Taniguchi･Hirohumi Aoki (Nagoya University)

This study examined the relationship between on-road driving evaluation and various indicators, such as grip strength, TMT, MVT, and HP, obtained from an online driving aptitude assessment for older drivers. While acknowledging certain limitations, we demonstrate its potential as a simplified assessment method that encourages drivers to undergo driving aptitude tests.

Preliminary Studies to Measure Cognitive Characteristics of Elderly Drivers, Utilizing Multitasking Conditions That Simulate Driving in a Simplified Manner
-Study on Driver Characteristics for Delaying Driving Cessation (50)-

Hiroshi Kishi･Hirofumi Aoki (Nagoya University)

To provide driving assistance that is precisely tailored to each individual’s needs, it is also important to understand the driving cognitive characteristics of each elderly driver. We are currently developing an app to measure cognitive characteristics -including “change detection in peripheral vision,” “spatial search,” “decision-making,” and “spatial memory”-under multitasking conditions that simulate driving in a simplified manner. Preliminary findings have demonstrated the usefulness of these multitasking conditions.

Study of Driving Error Mechanisms by Inadequate Steering-Pedal Coordination

Yui Kato･Machiko Hiramatsu･Yuka Nakayama･Akihiko Ebina (Nissan Motor)･Naoto Kamide･Masataka Ando (Kitasato University)･Atsushi Takamatsu (Nissan Motor)

This study aimed to clarify the driving error mechanisms that are common among older drivers. We analyzed crashes and near-miss incidents involving lane departure or pedal misapplication. The results suggested that one contributing factor is inadequate timing and magnitude of coordination between steering and pedal inputs during turning. Based on these cases, we developed an operating task that quantitatively measures this coordination. We examined how task performance relates to drivers’ physical and cognitive functions. From these data, we identified individual characteristics and typical patterns of steering and pedal actions associated with difficulties in coordinating these controls.

Effects of Early Cataract on Driving Behavior in Low-Light Conditions

Machiko Hiramatsu･Tsutomu Kawano･Yuki Ito･Yuki Hayakawa･Atsushi Takamatsu (Nissan Motor)･Takushi Kawamorita (Kitasato University)

Cataract is prevalent among older adults, reducing visual acuity under low-contrast and glare conditions, and has been associated with traffic accidents. This study aimed to clarify the effects of cataract on driving by measuring driving and gaze behaviors under dusk and nighttime conditions using a driving simulator, and by analyzing their relationship with lens opacity. Drivers with lens opacity exhibited compensatory behavior during right turns and showed delayed recognition of destination signs. These findings suggest that cataract-related changes may affect driving safety under low-contrast conditions.