Business chances in personal transportation: Traffic safety for older adults

Abstract

Japanese society has many problems regarding the aging population. This paper discusses safety changes in personal transportation for older adults. According to the statistics, the risk of traffic accidents among older adults is extremely high. In order to achieve traffic safety, it is important to address declining sensory and cognitive functions. We discuss three business chances aimed at reducing traffic accidents among elderly pedestrians: inspection technology, training technology, and assistive devices that compensate for cognitive functions. From the human factor study using virtual reality technology, the detailed situations of pedestrian traffic accidents become clear. Effective assistive technology can be developed based on risk factors for traffic accidents. © 2008 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.