Quality of life technology: the state of personal transportation.
Motor vehicles are a technology that has been embedded in the built environment since the early 1900s. Personal transportation is important for the quality of life of individuals who have disabilities because it gives a feeling of freedom and enables individuals who have mobility impairments to participate in the community. This article describes the evaluation of individuals and their cognitive, sensory, and physical abilities that are important for (safe) driving. A case is made for independent mobility for individuals who have disabilities and elderly individuals by first giving an overview of the functional, cognitive, and sensory abilities that are critical for driving. Second, the types of vehicle modifications and state-of-the-art controls that are available and on the horizon are described and the way in which these technologies are selected to meet driver needs is explained. Requirements for driver safety systems for drivers who remain in their wheelchairs are then discussed. Finally, emerging and innovative driving enhancement systems, such as obstacle avoidance and navigation, are discussed, as are their benefits in helping drivers who have disabilities and elderly drivers to experience safe and independent driving.
van Roosmalen
Linda
L
Department of Rehabilitation Science and Technology, University of Pittsburgh, 2310 Jane Street, Suite 1300, Pittsburgh, PA 15203, USA. Lvanroos@pitt.edu
Paquin
Gregory J
GJ
Steinfeld
Aaron M
AM
D000063:Accidents, Traffic / Q000517:prevention & control; D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000368:Aged; D001334:Automobile Driving; D004185:Disability Evaluation; D006233:Persons with Disabilities / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D004867:Equipment Design; D015577:Geriatric Assessment; D006801:Humans; D018986:Motor Vehicles; D011788:Quality of Life; D012449:Safety; D012656:Self-Help Devices