I'm not sure what's more disturbing: The fact that the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute (UMTRI) conducted this study or its results. . .
Older drivers-those in the 65 to 75 age group-have a tougher time performing the tasks associated with "plain old driving" than drivers aged 18 to 30. This probably explains why there are few race car drivers who are long-standing members of AARP.
(Note: I have nothing against people in the 65 to 75 year-old age group. For one thing, my mother is in that category. For another, I hope to be-some day.)
The UMTRI researchers were really after trying to find out about how telematics systems—as in navigation systems—would affect older drivers. As is fairly evident, the auto industry is hot on telematics. It almost seems that some of the vehicle manufacturers are hoping that if they can't get positive differentiation by the design and build of their vehicles, they'll be able to achieve sales via Nintendo-like offerings. And consumer electronics and software manufacturers are certainly more than glad to pursue what is undoubtedly a lucrative new market for them (i.e., Game Boys in the back seat are one thing; built-in displays are another).
Although everyone I've talked to associated with telematics say that they are keenly aware of the need to do cognitive studies, I hope that they don't limit their study group to those who are south of 60.
Listen to UMTRI senior research scientist Paul Green. Speaking of the addition of telematics-based tasks to "plain old driving," he says that there is a big difference: "This difference is of particular concern because the time older drivers take to complete some tasks is on the order of minutes, and distractions of that duration can expose drivers to unacceptable levels of risk."
I don't know about you, but unless I am stopped dead in grid locked traffic, nothing in driving "is on the order of minutes."
And apparently, it isn't just driving that's trying: According to studies of interactions with electronic maps, UMTRI researchers determined that "Even when parked, older drivers took almost 80% more time than younger drivers to enter information in a navigation system."
Before I read this study I used to be really annoyed by young women in their 20s who apply makeup while driving down I-696 in a Sunfire or the like during their morning commute. Now I'll be relieved to see them, relieved that they're not a 65-year-old rolling along in an M-Class trying to figure out how to use that damn nav system.
