Abstract
In-vehicle navigation systems (IVNS) have the potential to benefit older drivers, reducing stress associated with way-finding and providing on-trip support, especially in unfamiliar locations. However, existing IVNS present challenges to usability, resulting in lack of uptake and over-reliance on pre-trip planning.This paper presents research aimed at identifying features that make IVNS user-friendly and appropriate for older drivers. Studying navigational performance within a simulated driving environment, it focuses on the use of landmarks with route guidance information, and the most appropriate method of information provision (audio only, visual only or a combination of audio and visual). It also assesses potential gender differences that might arise with landmark-based navigational information.Solutions include use of appropriate roadside landmarks, and information delivered through a combination of audio and icon-based visual format. These features result in lower workload and fewer navigational errors. The audio/visual modality reduces the hazard of distraction by landmarks resulting in fewer visual glances and lower glance duration to the roadside compared to other modalities.Design and provision of IVNS tailored to older drivers’ needs can make a considerable contribution to maintaining individual mobility for longer.
Highlights
Navigation, in its broadest sense, is to travel safely, efficiently and independently from one point to another (Burns, 1999; May, Ross, & Osman, 2005)
The research undertaken and presented in this paper investigates navigational performance of older drivers when provided with landmark-based route guidance within a simulated driving environment
The 30 final participants were divided into three groups, with gender, navigational ability, and exposure to in-vehicle navigation system (IVNS) controlled for each group, allowing comparison of gender to be undertaken without the results being affected by the profile of the participants
Summary
Navigation, in its broadest sense, is to travel safely, efficiently and independently from one point to another (Burns, 1999; May, Ross, & Osman, 2005). It may involve two distinct but often interrelated themes: pre-trip planning and way-finding. Older adults may face challenges in navigating a journey from memory They will often want to avoid certain situations like heavy traffic, driving at night or driving on unfamiliar routes – a process called self-regulation (Burns, 1999; Charlton, Oxley, Fildes, Oxley, & Newstead, 2003; Rabbitt, Carmichael, Jones, & Holland, 1996).
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