title: Measurement of driving patterns of older adults using data logging devices with and without global positioning system capability.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Methods to study driving patterns and exposure of older drivers have typically relied on surveys or driving diaries. Electronic data logging devices may offer a reliable, alternative method of measuring driving exposure, and global positioning system (GPS) technology may be able to provide further information about driving patterns.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  The aim of this study was to compare a driving diary with two electronic data logging devices, one of which had GPS capability, in order to identify which method best assesses the driving exposure and habits of older drivers as well as the method most acceptable to study participants.
  
  
  METHODS
  In this prospective cohort study we recruited 20 participants aged 70 years or more (mean 78; range 70-85) (15 men and 5 women). The participants' driving patterns were recorded for one week with an electronic data logging device with GPS (FleetPulse), followed by recording for a further week with an electronic data logging device without GPS (CarChip). During both time periods the subjects also completed a standard driving diary.
  
  
  RESULTS
  More comprehensive information, including braking and acceleration patterns, duration of driving time, time of day, and maximum speeds, was collected with the electronic devices than with the driving diary. There was excellent correlation between the driving diary data and those obtained with the CarChip (r = 0.9; p < 0.01). The correlation between the driving diary data and the FleetPulse data was moderate (r = 0.56; p = 0.02). The subjects clearly preferred the electronic monitoring devices over the driving diary. GPS data were able to demonstrate driving routes.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Electronic data logging devices are a valid method for recording the driving patterns of older adults. These devices also reduce burden and improve the completeness of data.
authors: Elisabeth Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. smarshall@ottawahospital.on.ca
authors: Shawn C
authors: SC
authors: Marshall
authors: Keith G
authors: KG
authors: Wilson
authors: Frank J
authors: FJ
authors: Molnar
authors: Malcolm
authors: M
authors: Man-Son-Hing
authors: Ian
authors: I
authors: Stiell
authors: Michelle M
authors: MM
authors: Porter
mesh_terms: D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001334:Automobile Driving; D002170:Canada; D003625:Data Collection / Q000295:instrumentation*; D005260:Female; D040362:Geographic Information Systems; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011446:Prospective Studies