Date of Award
2006
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy
Program
Health and Rehabilitation Sciences
Supervisor
Jan Miller Polgar
Second Advisor
Dr. Eric Buckolz
Third Advisor
Dr. Angela Mandich
Abstract
In-vehicle navigation technology has the potential to help seniors’ avoid errors in navigation and way-finding, which can lead to unsafe driving behaviour (e.g., late lane changes). However, these devices may increase the demands associated with the driving task. In this context, it seems likely that drivers may rely on their passengers for assistance in operating this technology. However, no studies have evaluated how older drivers and passengers interact when using in-vehicle navigation technology and the potential impact of this interaction on driving safety. A study was conducted in which 44 older adults (aged 60 years and older), or 22 married couples participated. An exploratory, mixed methods design (i.e., concurrent triangulation strategy) was used to examine the interaction between older drivers and their co-pilots and the potential influence of in-vehicle navigation technology on their driving safety. Themes emerging from interviews with older drivers and co-pilots indicated that driving is a team task in older adulthood. Amongst couples, a difference was noted in terms of their perceptions of in-vehicle technology, which was linked to their previous experience with using other forms of technology. Each couple was evaluated using an invehicle navigation system for the first time in a laboratory setting. An observation tool was developed to analyze their performance and interaction while using the device. Results supported that underlying factors (e.g., experience with using other forms of technology) can influence collaboration among older adults when operating an in-vehicle navigation system. iii The final article used a case study approach to obtain a comprehensive understanding of those factors that contribute to the operation of in-vehicle technology among older drivers and their co-pilots. The Person-Environment-Occupation (PEO) Model was used to convey the relationship between factors that influence the ability of older adults to safely use vehicular technology while driving. This research provides important information concerning the range of abilities of older drivers and their co-pilots who are potential users of these devices. With an expected increase in the availability of vehicular technology, this information is critical in identifying those factors that enable older adults to use this technology without compromising their driving safety.
Recommended Citation
Vrkljan, Brenda H., "IN-VEHICLE NAVIGATION SYSTEMS AND DRIVING SAFETY: THE OCCUPATIONAL PEFORMANCE OF OLDER DRIVERS AND PASSENGERS A MIXED METHODS APPROACH" (2006). Digitized Theses. 4975.
https://ir.lib.uwo.ca/digitizedtheses/4975