data_pedal_device

Data from young and older participants on a task (pedal device) developed for older drivers.
abstract
Loss of driving opportunities has been associated with declines in physical and cognitive functions, as well as decreased daily activity levels. This highlights the need for appropriate assessments and evaluations to support the safe continuation of driving. The purpose of this study was to develop and evaluate a task that could objectively assess the effects of aging on driving performance, specifically focusing on the motor control required for accelerator operation. We focused on drivers' accelerator control and developed a speed adjustment task using the accelerator pedal. The task requires participants to adjust the accelerator pedal to match four target speeds: 30 km/h, 60 km/h, 40 km/h, and 70 km/h. The time required to complete the task was defined as the speed adjustment time and was compared between 56 younger and 48 elderly participants. The results demonstrated that the overall adjustment time was delayed in elderly participants, with a notably significant delay under the 30 km/h condition.　This task might reflect the effects of aging on motor control of ankle dorsiflexion and could serve as a potential assessment tool for evaluating driving performance in elderly individuals in the future.