Age-related driving disorders: screening in hospitals and outpatients settings

Older drivers are increasing in number and they often have health conditions that place them at high risk for motor vehicle crashes. The aims of this study were to: (i) evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of screening inpatients and outpatients over the age of 60 years for age-related driving disorders; and (ii) determine the patient characteristics associated with screening outcomes.

A convenience sample of 397 participants completed age-related driving disorders screening at University of California, San Diego, inpatient and outpatient settings. Eligibility criteria included California-licensed drivers over the age of 60 years who were English or Spanish speaking. Baseline screening included driving habits, restrictions, history of crashes, and medical history, including medications. Screening included visual acuity, visual fields, three strength frailty tests and two cognitive tests.

The average age of participants was 72 years; 59% were male and 12% Hispanic. Almost 20% of older adults failed at least one test, and were labeled 'high risk' for age-related driving disorders. In multivariate analysis, significant predictors of high-risk status were age, male sex, self-restrictions of driving and use of larger amounts of prescription drugs. Screening took approximately 15 min and participant satisfaction was high.

A brief screening evaluation identified one in five adults to be 'high risk' for age-related driving disorders. Screening was effective in both outpatient and inpatient settings, was well received and simple to administer.