Driven to comment: Learning from older drivers impressions of in-vehicle technologies

Abstract

Many challenges associated with aging faced by older drivers may be attenuated by advancements of in-vehicle technologies. One class in particular, In Vehicle Information Systems (IVIS), refers to a collection of features and functions that allow motorists to complete tasks in addition to operating the vehicle. Little is known about how interactions with IVIS may impact older drivers. This study explored comments provided by drivers while completing goal-oriented IVIS tasks in six vehicles; collected via survey, and in an open-ended prompt. Two age cohorts were evaluated: younger drivers between 21-36 years of age, and older drivers between 55-75 years of age. Analyses of comments investigated differences in the thematic content and emotional valence present in comments. Results indicated that older and younger drivers were surprisingly symmetrical in their responses pertaining to valence and themes, and older drivers were more willing to take time to become familiar with IVIS.