Improving Roadway Navigation and Safety of Older Age Drivers

Abstract

Motor vehicles are the primary mode of transportation worldwide, but drivers must simultaneously utilize various skills and perform multiple tasks at the same time to safely operate the vehicle. As people age, however, physical changes can affect daily life, possibly contributing to declining driving skills. These changes affect vision, hearing, reaction time, and cognitive and motor ability, thus complicating driving. This paper discusses the importance of driving for people of age 65 and older, age-related physical changes, and methods of improving overhead guide sign visibility on roadways. Suggestions to improve navigation and safety on roadways, especially for older people, are presented, including the use of autonomous vehicles fleet.