Driving simulation test for evaluating hazard perception: Elderly driver response characteristics

- We created a driving simulation test for assessing drivers' hazard-perception skills.
- Palmar sweating response (PSR) tended to be greater in hazard scenes classified into anticipation and complexity.
- Skin potential reflex (SPR) responses tend to be faster in surprise hazard scenes.
- SPR is a suitable index for evaluating hazard-perception timing.
- Participants suspected of declining cognitive function showed PSR and SPR responses inconsistent with the hazard scene.

We created a driving simulation test for assessing drivers' hazard-perception skills by measuring their palmar sweating response (PSR), skin potential reflex (SPR), and ability to operate the steering wheel, accelerator, and brake. We recruited 52 elderly people who were aged ≥60 years and were active drivers. These participants undertook the driving simulation test, and we measured their PSR, SPR, and device operation responses. PSR tended to be greater in hazard scenes that involved anticipation or complexity processes, suggesting the involvement of factors such as the participants' readiness to anticipate hazards and their emotional changes. SPR response was faster in hazard scenes that involved a surprise process. SPR response was faster than braking response, except in scenes where the participants had only a fleeting moment to react to the hazard, suggesting that SPR is a suitable evaluation index for hazard perception timing. Two participants were suspected of having decreased cognitive function according to the Mini-Mental State Examination. These individuals exhibited PSR and SPR responses that were not consistent with the hazard scenes, and they made errors in their operation of the driving simulator. These findings highlight the need to examine the impact of decreased cognitive function on hazard perception.