In late February, our research team hosted two focus groups with mature drivers aged 65 and older to gather feedback on the SENSE-APP prototype. The sessions were held at the National Research Council (NRC) facilities in Ottawa and brought together 11 experienced drivers to explore how the app could support safer driving and independence.<\/p>\n
The discussions provided valuable insight into how older adults view driving, technology, and feedback about their driving behaviour. Participants were invited to explore the prototype, share their first impressions, and discuss what kinds of information and support would be most helpful to them.<\/p>\n
A consistent theme across both sessions was the importance of driving for maintaining independence. Participants described driving as essential for everyday tasks such as grocery shopping, visiting friends and family, helping others in their community, and accessing services where public transportation is limited.<\/p>\n
For many, driving represents freedom and the ability to stay connected to their communities. Participants emphasized that any tool designed for mature drivers should support that independence rather than make them feel monitored or judged.<\/p>\n
Participants were very interested in the idea of receiving feedback about their driving. Many noted that changes in driving ability can happen gradually, making them difficult to notice on their own.<\/p>\n
Several participants said they would appreciate insights that help them recognize patterns in their driving, understand where they might improve, and stay aware of potential safety risks. They particularly valued feedback that could help them reflect on their driving over time.<\/p>\n
At the same time, participants stressed that feedback should be constructive rather than punitive. They preferred guidance that explains what happened and offers suggestions for improvement, rather than simply assigning a score or penalty.<\/p>\n
Privacy was another important topic in the discussions. Participants wanted to understand exactly what data would be collected and who would have access to it.<\/p>\n
Many expressed comfort with the app if the data remained under the driver\u2019s control and was not automatically shared with insurance companies, government agencies, or licensing authorities. Clear communication about data privacy and optional sharing settings were seen as essential for building trust.<\/p>\n
Participants responded positively to visual elements such as colour-coded indicators and summaries of driving behaviour. These visuals helped them quickly understand their driving patterns.<\/p>\n
However, several participants emphasized the importance of keeping the interface simple and easy to navigate. Some suggested that additional guidance,\u00a0 onboarding, or in-person training could help users become more comfortable with the app.<\/p>\n
Many participants appreciated the concept of the app as a supportive tool that helps drivers stay aware of their habits and continue driving safely for as long as possible.<\/p>\n
Rather than focusing only on mistakes, they preferred insights that highlight opportunities to improve, provide practical tips, and encourage safe driving practices. Some participants even noted that tools like this could motivate drivers to refresh their knowledge of road rules or take a defensive driving course.<\/p>\n
The feedback from these focus groups will help guide the continued development of SENSE-APP. Insights from participants are being used to refine the app\u2019s design, improve how driving feedback is presented, and ensure that the experience remains supportive, accessible, and respectful of users\u2019 independence.<\/p>\n
We are grateful to the mature drivers who generously shared their experiences and perspectives. Their input is helping shape a tool designed to empower drivers with information that supports safer driving and confidence on the road.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
In late February, our research team hosted two focus groups with mature drivers aged 65 and older to gather feedback on the SENSE-APP prototype. The sessions were held at the National Research Council (NRC) facilities in Ottawa and brought together 11 experienced drivers to explore how the app could support safer driving and independence. The […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":16,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_relevanssi_hide_post":"","_relevanssi_hide_content":"","_relevanssi_pin_for_all":"","_relevanssi_pin_keywords":"","_relevanssi_unpin_keywords":"","_relevanssi_related_keywords":"","_relevanssi_related_include_ids":"","_relevanssi_related_exclude_ids":"","_relevanssi_related_no_append":"","_relevanssi_related_not_related":"","_relevanssi_related_posts":"","_relevanssi_noindex_reason":"","_mi_skip_tracking":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_active":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_note":"","_exactmetrics_sitenote_category":0,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"footnotes":"","_links_to":"","_links_to_target":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"yoast_head":"\n