The New Tool for Older Driver Safety: Brain Training Games. AAA Foundation CEO Explains
Free Online Articles Directory
Why Submit Articles?
Top Authors
Top Articles
FAQ
ABAnswers
Publish Article
0 && $.browser.msie ) {
var ie_version = parseInt($.browser.version);
if(ie_version Login
Login via
Register
Hello
My Home
Sign Out
Email
Password
Remember me?
Lost Password?
Home Page > Automotive > The New Tool for Older Driver Safety: Brain Training Games. AAA Foundation CEO Explains
The New Tool for Older Driver Safety: Brain Training Games. AAA Foundation CEO Explains
Edit Article |
Posted: Sep 30, 2009 |Comments: 0
| Views: 107 |
]]>
Copyright (c) 2009 SharpBrains
The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety just started recommending a new “brain training” driver safety program called DriveSharp, developed by Posit Science. DriveSharp is a computerized cognitive assessment and training tool based on Karlene Ball’s research on older adults’ cognitive fitness and driving.
Commenting on this news, Peter Kissinger, CEO of the AAA Foundation, recently said that “Part of making our nation’s roads safer is helping mature drivers who wish to stay active – a quickly growing population – maintain or improve their driving safety.”
We have Peter Kissinger with us to discuss the context for this innovative initiative.
Question: Peter, I appreciate your time. In order to set the context, would you introduce the role and priorities of the AAA Foundation?
Answer: Sure. As you know, AAA has over 50 million members. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety prioritizes four main areas of work:
- Introduce a culture of traffic safety. It is an outrage that there is a driving-related death every 13 minutes in the US, and yet, we seem to accept this as status quo
- Improve road safety, especially on rural roads, where almost 60% of the deaths occur,
- Improve safety among teens, one of the highest risk groups
- Improve safety among seniors, another high-risk group.
Q: I understand your priorities are thee safety of teenagers and older drivers?
A: Yes. You have probably seen the U-shaped risk curve that shows how accident risks are very high among teenagers, then decrease and remain stable until our 60s, and then increase again.
We have promoted initiatives such as DriverZED (see www.driverzed.org) to help teenagers better identify and manage the typical sources of risk, so they advance faster through the learning curve. For older adults who want to keep driving we need to ensure the right balance between the privilege of driving with the right of mobility – we know that losing one’s ability to drive has negative consequences for the person.
Q: Given aging population trends, it is clear we need to introduce better systems to balance those two goals you just outlined -safety and mobility. Do you think as a society we are prepared?
A: I don’t think we are, and I am pessimistic that we will be in the short term. This is a very important problem: official estimates say that the proportion of all drivers who are over 65 years of age will grow from 15% today to 25% in 2025.
Let me explain the context: two years ago we put together a workshop to identify the state of the research and the state of the practice of driver safety among older adults. The main conclusion was that the current system of licensing is inadequate, inconsistent and does not reflect the research available. For example, age per se is not the most meaningful indicator of driver safety since different people inside the same age group may have different levels of cognitive ability that influence their driving fitness.
The problem is that this is a very sensitive arena: the quality of the DMV is usually measured by wait times and ease to renew the license….so it is going to be tough for any politician to challenge this state of things and introduce serious initiatives based on better driving fitness screening and assessment tools.
Some states like Maryland and California are leading innovation based on recent research; but it remains to be seen if their best practices will be adopted more widely.
Q: Innovation will probably spread faster when presented as a preventive intervention to maintain driver fitness, such as what the AAA Foundation just announced with Posit Science. Can you explain the rationale for your initiative?
A: Exactly. The main characteristics of the problem are obvious to anyone involved in driver safety research. The challenge is what we can do about it. In our work we constantly evaluate many potential programs, for example how to get the medical community more engaged, and we decided to offer a cognitive screening and training program such as DriveSharp.
We decided to recommend DriveSharp for two reasons. First, it is validated both as a screening tool of driver safety and as a training tool of cognitive functions (useful field of view, speed of processing) that are critical for driving especially among older adults. Second, the technology makes it highly scalable – many drivers can easily access the benefits at an affordable cost.
We really believe, based on the research we have seen, that this program can help reduce the crash rates among older drivers, but we of course need to analyze how many of AAA’s 51 million members (and other drivers) end up using it and what benefits they will get. Past research has shown we should expect to see a 50% reduction in at-fault crash risk for those that complete the program.
Q: Assuming the results are as good as you expect, what would be some logical next steps for policy makers and auto insurers?
A: I think that insurance companies will start to see the value of these programs quickly and will offer them for free or at a deep discount to their members because they will understand the direct financial benefits from doing so -the financial benefits of having safer drivers.
It will take a while for policy-makers to catch up. But I do believe that in the longer term we will see this type of technology introduced as part of the mainstream licensing process.
Retrieved from “http://www.articlesbase.com/automotive-articles/the-new-tool-for-older-driver-safety-brain-training-games-aaa-foundation-ceo-explains-1285005.html”
(ArticlesBase SC #1285005)
Start increasing your traffic today just by submitting articles with us, click here to get started.
Liked this article? Click here to publish it on your website or blog, it’s free and easy!
Alvaro Fernandez -
About the Author:
Alvaro Fernandez is the Co-Author of The SharpBrains Guide to Brain Fitness (May 2009, $24.95), the first consumer guide that reviews the science behind brain training games. You can Order this brain fitness Book at Amazon.com. Alvaro has been quoted in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, CNN and more. He holds MA in Education and MBA from Stanford University.
]]>
Questions and Answers
Ask our experts your Automotive related questions here…
Ask
200 Characters left
Does new orleans have a beach ?
Now my parents think that playing xbox kills brain cells, and causes anger management ,when i never ever even get mad,and i play the games for fun.and only play 2times a week. can you explain to them
Does the brain create new brain cells ?
Rate this Article
1
2
3
4
5
vote(s)
0 vote(s)
Feedback
RSS
Print
Email
Re-Publish
Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/automotive-articles/the-new-tool-for-older-driver-safety-brain-training-games-aaa-foundation-ceo-explains-1285005.html
Article Tags:
brain training, posit science, brain fitness program, brain training games, aaa, driver safety
Related Videos
Latest Automotive Articles
More from Alvaro Fernandez
Brain Training Game – Part 52
Video Brain Teaser – Part 52: Videos that provide viewers with brain teasers/mental puzzles. These may consist of problems dealing with the arrangement of matchsticks, coins, and other items. May include pencil drawing games, optical illusions, hidden ima (00:45)
Brain Training Game – Part 51
Video Brain Teaser – Part 51: Videos that provide viewers with brain teasers/mental puzzles. These may consist of problems dealing with the arrangement of matchsticks, coins, and other items. May include pencil drawing games, optical illusions, hidden ima (00:44)
Brain Training Game – Part 50
Video Brain Teaser – Part 50: Videos that provide viewers with brain teasers/mental puzzles. These may consist of problems dealing with the arrangement of matchsticks, coins, and other items. May include pencil drawing games, optical illusions, hidden ima (00:44)
Brain Training Game – Part 49
Video Brain Teaser – Part 49: Videos that provide viewers with brain teasers/mental puzzles. These may consist of problems dealing with the arrangement of matchsticks, coins, and other items. May include pencil drawing games, optical illusions, hidden ima (00:45)
Brain Training Game – Part 48
Video Brain Teaser – Part 48: Videos that provide viewers with brain teasers/mental puzzles. These may consist of problems dealing with the arrangement of matchsticks, coins, and other items. May include pencil drawing games, optical illusions, hidden ima (00:44)
Attend a motor show online
For any car enthusiasts, going to a motor show is the ultimate thing. Most of the big shows are either held in the US or in elsewhere Europe although the Goodwood Festival of Speed is an excellent home grown event.
By:
AlbertElliottl
Automotivel
Feb 18, 2011
Choosing The Best Auto Mechanic For Your Car
When it comes to finding a professional for almost any reason, selecting the right one for your circumstances can almost always be a difficult job. This can be even more difficult when setting out to find a great auto mechanic, both because there seem to be so many of them and because most people know so little about cars. However, there are a few things that you can do to ensure that you find just the right mechanic for you.
By:
mike carterl
Automotivel
Feb 18, 2011
Try ACT Clutch and AEM Gauges for Best Performance
Clutch and gauge are vital parts of an automobile. A clutch transfers torque to the transmission of a vehicle by engaging the engine to the gearbox. When the engine puts out performance, a clutch kit comes into play and needs to handle it properly. Gauges are vital too as they indicate an impending problem with the engine that could cause a failure.
By:
Editor123l
Automotivel
Feb 18, 2011
Story Of The Hatchback
A hatchback is a variety of car that began to make an emergence during the later part of the 30′s and early 40′s. A standard book explanation of a hatchback generally has a vague explanation, such as “a car having a door over the full width at the back end that opens in the upward direction to offer convenient access for packing.” whilst correct, there’s a lot more than this to the hatchback!
By:
SallyJurdonl
Automotivel
Feb 17, 2011
Car Door Unlocking and Auto Keys Made
Being locked out of your car is one of the most frustrating things that can rain on anyone’s day. The days you are already stressed out end up being the days your preoccupied mind shuts the keys in the locked car or loses them all together. Thankfully locksmith services are available at all hours the day. They can get you in your car within a matter of skilled minutes and can also offer you replacement keys if you lost your keys altogether.
By:
Paul Buchananl
Automotivel
Feb 17, 2011
Here Are A Few Awesome Car Accessory Ideas
Most of us love to stamp our personality on our possessions and automobiles are of course no exception. We have a tendency to regard cars delivered from the showroom or the factory as slightly impersonal and try and fit them with cool car accessories that are more in tune with who we are as people. There’s a vast range of accessories that are available that are equally fun and sensible.
By:
abrahamciwolskil
Automotivel
Feb 17, 2011
Taxi Drivers: Always be Ready for a Clean-up
It’s a sad fact that from time to time, taxi passengers are prone to sickness when travelling in the cab. As well as being unpleasant for the paying customer, it is also understandably nasty for the driver. And of course, when the journey is over, the cabbie often has the job of cleaning up the rather dreadful mess.
By:
David Hurdl
Automotivel
Feb 17, 2011
Sensible Cabbies Always Carry a Draper First Aid Kit
Any experienced taxi drivers may have had occasions when a passenger has fallen ill during a journey. And while no-one expects a driver to know too much about medical emergencies, it’s reassuring for passengers to know the driver does at least have a few items in the cab which can help them if they have a minor medical problem.
By:
David Hurdl
Automotivel
Feb 17, 2011
Why We Need Personal Brain Trainers – Dr. Michael Merzenich and Neuroplasticity
Ever thought you will one day have access to a “personal brain trainer” – and why you would ever want one? I recently had the fortune to interview Dr. Michael Merzenich, a leading pioneer in brain plasticity research, and we discussed precisely that. You may have seen Dr. Merzenich in one of PBS TV Brain Fitness specials, or multiple media appearances. Now is our chance to interview him, and to learn the latest about brain fitness.
By:
Alvaro Fernandezl
Healthl
Jan 12, 2010
lViews: 139
Will Public Libraries Become The Brain Gyms of the Future?
Public libraries moved beyond just offering books long ago, but only now are they actively promoting brain health in the community. If reshaped as Health Clubs of the Brain and the Mind, public libraries would provide a critical service to an aging population and become centers of information and destinations for brain fitness programs.
By:
Alvaro Fernandezl
Educationl
Sep 15, 2009
Preparing Society for the Cognitive Age With New Brain Research, Education and Tools
Groundbreaking brain research has occurred over the last 20 years – without parallel growth of consumer awareness and professional development. Neuroscientist Torkel Klingberg is optimistic, “In the future we may be as aware of cognitive function as we now are obsessed with calories, diets, glycemic index and cardiovascular training”. What are the obstacles slowing down progress, and how can we deal with them?
By:
Alvaro Fernandezl
Educationl
Aug 16, 2009
lViews: 175
Stay Sharp for Life: Debunk Ten Brain Myths
How can you take care of your brain when every week brings a new barrage of articles and studies which seem to contradict each other? Do supplements improve memory? Do you need both physical and mental exercise? Which brain training approach, if any, is worth one’s time and money? Once you understand the facts of brain health and training, instead of believing the myths, you will be able to make much better decisions on how to stay sharp.
By:
Alvaro Fernandezl
Healthl
Jun 29, 2009
lViews: 175
Everyone a Changemaker of his or her Brain: Why Volunteer Programs can Improve Brain Fitness
My wife and I recently attended an inspiring Goldman Prize Award ceremony, where seven grassroots environmental change-makers were recognized for their impressive work and resiliency. We did hear too from Al Gore, Tracy Chapman, Robert Redford, and Richard Goldman. What does this have to do with one’s brain? well, a recent study showed how volunteering can provide significant brain benefits. Improve the World, Improve your Brain!
By:
Alvaro Fernandezl
Self Improvementl
Apr 24, 2009
lViews: 121
Technology For Brain Health: An Upcoming Revolution In Cognitive Assessments And Training
In April 2008, Baycrest, a leading research institute focused on aging and brain function, received $10-million from the Ontario Government to create a groundbreaking Centre for Brain Fitness. We have Baycrest’s CEO with us today, to explore why and how the XXI century may witness a revolution in Brain Health fueled by new technology.
By:
Alvaro Fernandezl
Healthl
Feb 24, 2009
The Top 10 Brain Health Books of 2008: Ready for Some Mental Exercise?
Here you have The 10 Most Popular Brain Fitness & Cognitive Health Books of 2008, based on book purchases by SharpBrains’ readers during 2008. We hope you find them as stimulating as we did – ready to exercise your brain by selecting at least one to read?
By:
Alvaro Fernandezl
Healthl
Jan 14, 2009
lViews: 108
Are Videogames Good or Bad for Your Brain? it Depends Who You are
You may be thinking about innovative ways to maintain your brain in top shape in 2009. Two recent scientific studies published by Dr. Arthur Kramer and colleagues suggest an intriguing possibility: playing strategy videogames. Especially if you are 60-years-old or over.
By:
Alvaro Fernandezl
Arts & Entertainmentl
Jan 03, 2009
Add new Comment
Your Name: *
Your Email:
Comment Body: *
Verification code:*
* Required fields
Submit
Your Articles Here
It’s Free and easy
Sign Up Today
Author Navigation
My Home
Publish Article
View/Edit Articles
View/Edit Q&A
Edit your Account
Manage Authors
Statistics Page
Personal RSS Builder
My Home
Edit your Account
Update Profile
View/Edit Q&A
Publish Article
Author Box
Alvaro Fernandez has 58 articles online
Contact Author
Subscribe to RSS
Print article
Send to friend
Re-Publish article
Articles Categories
All Categories
Advertising
Arts & Entertainment
Automotive
Beauty
Business
Careers
Computers
Education
Finance
Food and Beverage
Health
Hobbies
Home and Family
Home Improvement
Internet
Law
Marketing
News and Society
Relationships
Self Improvement
Shopping
Spirituality
Sports and Fitness
Technology
Travel
Writing
Automotive
Cars
Classics
Motorcycles
Rentals
RVs
SUVs
Trucks
Vans
]]>
Need Help?
Contact Us
FAQ
Submit Articles
Editorial Guidelines
Blog
Site Links
Recent Articles
Top Authors
Top Articles
Find Articles
Site Map
Mobile Version
Webmasters
RSS Builder
RSS
Link to Us
Business Info
Advertising
Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the Terms Of Use and Privacy Policy | User published content is licensed under a Creative Commons License.
Copyright © 2005-2011 Free Articles by ArticlesBase.com, All rights reserved.
Alvaro Fernandez is the Co-Author of The SharpBrains Guide to Brain Fitness (May 2009, $24.95), the first consumer guide that reviews the science behind brain training games. You can Order this brain fitness Book at Amazon.com. Alvaro has been quoted in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, CNN and more. He holds MA in Education and MBA from Stanford University.
Recommended Reading