Cutting-edge study captures behaviour of older drivers

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McMaster researchers in the School of Rehabilitation Science are trying to better understand seniors’ driving behaviours.

Teams in six cities, including one in Hamilton led by Brenda Vrkljan, an associate professor in the occupational therapy program, are monitoring drivers over the age of 70. The study is part of the Canadian Institutes for Health Research (CIHR)-funded team Candrive.

As part of the Candrive initiative, researchers at three Canadian universities, including McMaster, are using GPS devices and video cameras installed in vehicles to get a sense of on-road performance.

Funded by AUTO21 – A Network of Centres of excellence, the in-vehicle camera project aims to provide data to policymakers and healthcare professionals. The information will be key in developing better systems of evaluation for senior drivers.

Vrkljan’s team has produced a short video outlining the project. The video is part of a competition hosted by AUTO21, and the winner will be selected by automotive executives and others at the network’s upcoming conference.

Please “like”, share, and watch the video – Vrkljan’s team needs as many hits as possible by May 21.

 

Automotive research at McMaster, including Vrkljan’s work, is featured in the latest issue of the McMaster Times magazine.

Other studies on seniors and driving are being conducted as part of the Labarge Optimal Aging Initiative.