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Cognitive Ageing and Hazard Perception

The Cognitive Ageing and Hazard Perception study is led by Professor Kaarin Anstey at the Australian National University in collaboration with Dr Mark Horswill and Associate Professor Nancy Pachana from the University of Queensland, Professor Joanne Wood from Queensland University of Technology and Dr Nick Barnes from National ICT Australia.

This study aims to characterise the effects of cognitive ageing and visual changes on hazard perception to inform the development of interventions to improve hazard perception and road safety in older Australians. These include developing the ACT hazard perception test specifically designed for older drivers (UQ) and pilot work adapting Smart Car technology to improve safety for older drivers (NICTA).

 

RESEARCH HIGHLIGHT

Research Assistant Amy Dawel working through the ACT Hazard Perception Test.

Research work to date

In February 2007, the ARU ran focus groups to determine the areas in Canberra and driving situations that older drivers find hazardous or difficult. Their comments helped direct the filming effort of traffic hazards in the ACT. This video footage was sent to UQ where Dr Horswill and his colleagues catalogued and rated the severity of the traffic hazards. A broad range of these hazards were selected and compiled to create the ACT hazard perception test.

Over 300 older drivers have been assessed on this test and other cognitive and visual tests. Currently the test is being evaluated in conjunction with an on-road driving test. In 2009 the project will pilot research adapting Smart Car technology to improve safety for older drivers in conjunction with National ICT Australia.

 

Funding

Australian Research Council Linkage grant and the NRMA ACT Road Safety Trust, NHMRC Fellowship, National ICT Australia, NHMRC Fellowship.

 

ARU staff and students working on Cognitive Ageing and Hazard Perception

• Professor Kaarin Anstey
• Dr Karin du Plessis
• Ms Arianne Schlumpp
• Mr Chris Hatherly

Related student project

• The Relationship between Visual Attention and Safe Driving in Older Adults
  Mr Chris Hatherly (Phd Candidate)

 

 

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