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Driving cessation in older men with dementia
Geri Adler1, Michael Kuskowski
1Geriatric Research and Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55417, USA. adle0009@tc.umn.edu
Alzheimer Disease and Associated Disorders
|June 10, 2003
Summary
Many older men with dementia continue driving long after diagnosis. Driving cessation is often abrupt, influenced by physician advice, with cognitive decline and age predicting cessation.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Neurology
- Public Health
Background:
- Driving is a critical activity for independence in older adults.
- Dementia significantly impacts cognitive abilities essential for safe driving.
- Understanding driving cessation patterns in dementia is crucial for safety and quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the driving cessation process in older men diagnosed with dementia.
- To identify factors influencing the decision to stop driving.
- To determine the duration of driving post-dementia diagnosis.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 53 older male drivers with dementia was recruited.
- Baseline data included driving history, habits, and cessation expectations.
- Collateral informants provided corroborating driving information.
- Follow-up assessments occurred 25-39 months later to ascertain current driving status.
Main Results:
- Nearly half (46.5%) of participants continued driving regularly at follow-up.
- Over half (53.5%) had ceased driving, often abruptly following physician recommendations.
- Lower Mini-Mental State Examination scores and older age predicted driving cessation.
Conclusions:
- A significant proportion of men with dementia continue to drive for years after onset.
- Driving cessation decisions are complex and often physician-mediated.
- Early identification of driving risks in dementia is essential.