Rosamond Gianutsos, PhD, FAAO, CDRS Aaron Beattie, Programmer
The Elemental Driving Simulator (EDS) is a computer-based quasi-simulator for use by professionals in driver rehabilitation with cognitively at-risk persons (e.g., older drivers, persons returning to driving after a head injury or stroke). The EDS helps address the issue of whether the individual possesses sufficient information processing capabilities to drive safely. The EDS was developed to facilitate a driving advisement process based on objective, norm-referenced measures of the cognitive abilities regarded as critical for driving, including mental processing efficiency, simultaneous information processing, perceptual - motor skills, and impulse control. A unique feature of the EDS is its attempt to measure insight, and, hence, judgment, by comparing self-appraisal with performance.
Validation of the EDS shows good agreement with decisions based on a comprehensive on- and off-road driving assessment, large differences between old and young drivers, and a statistically significant correlation with at-fault accidents.
Because of the heightened responsibilities associated with driving advisement,the EDS is sold only for use by professionals who:
Philosophy: The goal of the driver advisement process is not only to determine if the individual has adequate cognitive capacities, but also to demonstrate the findings clearly enough so that the driver will make the correct decision (i.e., whether and how to continue driving). It is essential to recognize that authorization of licensure can only be rendered by the state department of motor vehicles. Nevertheless, it is the individual who decides whether, when, and where to exercise this authorization. The EDS was designed to assist in this decision-making process.
Rosamond Gianutsos, PhD, a neuropsychologist who developed this and other Computer Programs for Cognitive Rehabilitation.
The Driving Advisement Seminar requires 9 hours usually in one (8AM-5PM) day. Included are didactic presentations, demonstration, and interactive discussion. It is scheduled individually, usually on a weekend. Follow-up telephone consultation and review by mail are included for 3 months.
Individuals who have established credentials acceptable to Life Science Associates for use of the EDS (e.g., possession of an appropriate degree and/or licensure in psychology or occupational therapy). Attendance is limited to at most 6 persons per seminar who seek authorization to use the materials.
When there is more than one trainee, the seminar will be conducted at your facility (travel expenses for the instructor extra), with the instructor installing and testing the equipment on your computer at the same time. Alternatively, the seminar is held in New York City.
The price of the EDS (see below) includes the seminar for one participant. Tuition for the second through sixth person from a facility purchasing the EDS is $200, if scheduled concurrently, or if these persons can be scheduled for another seminar when and where an opening permits. After satisfactory completion of the seminar, approved users will be issued copies of the programs personalized with their names. The fee for Auditors (who will not be authorized to use software) is $50.00.
1. "IBM" refers to an IBM-386+ or true-compatible computer with at least 8 Meg. of memory, one floppy drive, CGA or better graphics, and a dual game port (supports 4 buttons). A printer is highly recommended.
2. Warranty: The purchase price includes a limited one-year parts and labor warranty covering repairs due to manufacturer's defects. Of course, there is no time limit on our responsibility for correction of significant program errors should any be brought to our attention. For service, call, write, or FAX Life Science Associates to receive information.No consequential damages, expressed or implied, are covered.
3. Extended Warranty: Annual extended warranty may be purchased, before the original or extended warranty expires, for $80.00/year for the standard unit and $50.00/year for the portable unit.
An information packet is available from LSA containing details about costs, system requirements, forms for seminar registration for all participants and auditors, and information on making seminar arrangements with the instructor. Send purchase order to Life Science Associates. Systems are made to order - we request payment with your order.