A new study conducted by Florida Atlantic University (FAU) has revealed that cognitive changes in older drivers can be detected through the use of low-cost, in-vehicle sensors. The research, published in BMC Geriatrics, highlights the potential of a novel early warning system that could help identify cognitive decline in senior drivers.
The system, developed by a multidisciplinary team of nursing, engineering, and neuropsychology researchers at FAU, utilizes unobtrusive sensors installed in vehicles to monitor driving behavior for signs of cognitive impairment. By analyzing data collected from driver-facing and forward-facing cameras, as well as a telematics unit, researchers are able to detect abnormal driving patterns such as getting lost, ignoring traffic signals, distraction, and drowsiness.
The in-vehicle sensor network, designed by FAU’s College of Engineering and Computer Science, uses open-source hardware and software components to minimize complexity and costs. Each sensor system includes units for telematics data and video data, which are processed to identify hard braking, accelerations, turns, and various driving behaviors.
The study aims to recruit 460 participants from Broward and Palm Beach counties in Southeast Florida, who will undergo cognitive testing every three months over a three-year period. Participants will be classified into three diagnostic groups: mild cognitive impairment, early dementia, and unimpaired (normal), allowing researchers to assess the system’s ability to detect cognitive changes accurately.
The innovative in-vehicle sensing and monitoring system offer a non-invasive way to track subtle changes in older drivers’ cognition, providing early warnings of potential cognitive decline. By leveraging modern technology and existing techniques, the system offers a practical solution for identifying cognitive dysfunction in aging populations.
Moving forward, the research team plans to continue testing the system’s effectiveness in detecting cognitive changes in older drivers, with the ultimate goal of enhancing road safety and promoting early intervention for individuals at risk of cognitive impairment. This groundbreaking study sheds light on a promising approach to addressing the complex issue of cognitive decline in aging drivers, offering a glimpse into the future of in-vehicle monitoring technology.
