Increasing the competency and confidence of older drivers in the use of advanced vehicle technologies: the MOVETech randomized controlled trial

Programs that teach older drivers how to confidently and competently use advanced vehicle technologies (AVTs) are limited. The MOVETech study evaluated a training program specifically designed to teach older drivers how to use these technologies. Participants (n = 119) were randomized to the intervention (training program) or control group (brochure). The intervention involved an in-person classroom education session on the use and benefits of AVTs, and an on-road driving session where participants drove along a pre-defined route in a dual-controlled vehicle with instruction on AVT use by a driving instructor. All participants completed in-person and telephone assessments at baseline and 3 months. Driving performance and on-road AVT competence assessments were the primary outcomes. Self-reported driving confidence, competence, and confidence in use of AVT, crashes, citations, and count of vehicle damage were the secondary outcomes. Program fidelity was also evaluated using a checklist. At 3 months, overall driving performance was high (96/100) and similar between groups. The intervention group, however, had slightly higher competence in AVT use (77 vs 73), but the between-group difference was not statistically significant (4.14, 95% CI −4.85 to 13.13). There were no differences in secondary outcomes. Program fidelity was high for all classroom sessions but varied for on-road sessions due to external and environmental factors, which impacted how AVT was demonstrated. The findings indicate AVT competence and confidence may be improved by combining classroom and on-road sessions, and importantly, that this type of program is feasible and very well-accepted among older drivers. Future work could target drivers with new vehicles who are unfamiliar with AVT to determine potential real-world benefits. This study provides evidence for vehicle manufacturers and policymakers to explore efficient ways of providing support to older drivers with AVT.