#Japan #E-Sports #Kochi #Senior Drivers #JAF Kochi

The Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) Kochi branch, led by Seizo Sato, is launching an exciting initiative tailored specifically for senior drivers aged 70 and above. From January 21, 2023, the 'First e-Sports Project for Extending Driving Life' will be conducted, aiming to explore the effects of e-sports on cognitive functions and driving abilities among senior citizens. This project is particularly crucial as issues such as rising traffic accident rates and the reduction of public transport options for the elderly have become pressing concerns in Kochi. Participating in this project will involve a series of e-sports experiences, using state-of-the-art driving simulators to objectively assess participants' cognitive and driving skills.

Project Overview

This innovative project focuses on how regular engagement in e-sports can enhance cognitive functions, attention, and driving capabilities in older adults. By enrolling in this program, participants will not only engage in fun gaming experiences but also contribute to important research that could ultimately benefit all senior drivers. The program will consist of eight sessions, where selected participants will have the opportunity to experience e-sports and driving simulations to measure their progress.

Program Schedule

• - Information Session: January 21, Wednesday, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
• - Simulation Experience:

- First Session: January 21, Wednesday, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
- Second Session: March 3, Tuesday, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM

• - e-Sports Experience (Lottery for 6 Participants): All sessions from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM (the first session will be from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM):

- February 3, Tuesday
- February 6, Friday
- February 10, Tuesday
- February 13, Friday
- February 17, Tuesday
- February 20, Friday
- February 24, Tuesday
- February 27, Friday

Location

The program will be held at the JAF Kochi Branch, located at 19-28 Kitakubo, Kochi City.

Participant Requirements

To participate, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• - Aged in their 70s and currently driving
• - In good health and able to attend all scheduled e-sports and simulation sessions
• - Willing to contribute to data collection for effect verification
• - Own a smartphone (iPhone: iOS 12 or higher, Android: version 6 or higher)
• - Cost: Participation is entirely free

Application Process

Those interested must submit applications ahead of the deadline of January 20, 2023. For inquiries and to apply, contact the Kochi City Comprehensive Community Support Center at 088-823-4014. For additional questions, please reach out to the JAF Kochi branch at 088-882-0311 (available weekdays from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, excluding weekends and holidays).

Collaborative Partners

This initiative is a collaborative effort involving Kochi Health Science University, Shin Matsuda Medical Corporation Atago Hospital, Aioi Nissay Dowa Insurance Company Kochi Branch, the Kochi e-Sports Association, and the Kochi City Comprehensive Community Support Center.
In conclusion, this e-sports program represents a unique merging of fun and functional skills, with the potential to significantly impact the driving capabilities and well-being of senior participants.