A simulator for assessing older driver skills

This paper presents data from a study designed to develop simulator assessment procedures for older drivers. The study compares the driving simulator performance of 51 younger drivers (age 21-50) with 67 older drivers (age 70-90). Driving scenarios were designed to minimize simulator sickness symptoms which appear to increase with age and be more severe in females. The simulator performance results show sensitivity to age, and do not appear to be affected by simulator sickness symptoms. The primary objective of this project was to develop a PC-based program in conjunction with a low-cost driving simulator that can be used for screening and potentially retraining the psychomotor, attentional, and cognitive skills of older drivers. Implications for road safety are discussed.