Mobile, Active and Safe (MAS) Consortium
The MAS Consortium is a virtual network of researchers from a variety of disciplines with a passion for mobility and driving research in older persons. In alphabetical order, the MAS Consortium consists of:
Dr. Chelsea Dobbins, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
Professor Louise Gustafsson, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
Professor Mark Horswill, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
Dr Andrew Hill, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
Dr Jacki Liddle, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
Professor Nancy A. Pachana, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
Dr. Theresa Scott, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
Mr. Peter Worthy, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
Our research focuses on DRIVING CESSATION, with the empirically validated CarFreeMe program [https://carfreeme.com.au/] for older adults seeking a path to safe and satisfying driving cessation, and its related programs for older persons with specific challenges (e.g. stroke and early dementia) as well as HAZARD PERCEPTION TESTING AND TRAINING [https://habs.uq.edu.au/article/2018/05/perception-wheel], which includes assessments of driving skills related to crash risk and training interventions to improve these skills.
In particular, we are keen to further explore, from an interdisciplinary perspective as well as a sustainability perspective, how innovative ways to encourage moving not just to driving cessation, but towards alternate forms of transport and community-focused mobility models to enhance positive aging. Our group also has expertise in enhancing older adult driving skills through training on a hazard perception program. We are also interested in collaborative research with older persons on their preferences regarding mobility solutions which make sense to them, and are accessible and acceptable, including perhaps the exploration of autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles, or the impact of electric bicycles or scooters. More generally, we are interested how the current gap between private and public transportation options interact with increasing age, and unique challenges and opportunities posed by technology, the internet and e-health solutions, and an increasing aging population.