ROAD TRIP 2.0 – Transforming the Mobility Landscape for Aging America

Abstract

As a pilot program, ROAD TRIP has shown tremendous promise for enhancing the lives of aging rural adults who struggle with mobility. ROAD TRIP tailors recommendations based on a detailed evaluation of the individual. Older adult participants are assessed along a series of dimensions including cognitive, perceptual, physical, and psychological, a broad array of driving behaviors, advanced driver assist system usage and comfort, and situational and/or environmental context. Assessment data are processed by a novel algorithm designed to organize and extract disparate vital information which is displayed graphically along with pre-defined criteria to suggest possible countermeasures. Researchers then load the participant’s graphical information into easy-to-use, color-coded documentation along with recommended countermeasures and discussion points.

Participants have been extremely and uniformly enthusiastic about the program to date and its impact on their lives, all strongly agreeing that participation was worthwhile with statements such as: “I love it!” and “This is just what I needed.” Driving safety improvements have also been observed. However, the current program involves a lengthy process that is relatively expensive to implement. Therefore, the goal of this effort is to re-invent the program in a way that retains its vital strengths while permitting broad dissemination and maximum positive impact.  

CATM Research Affiliate: