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The parkinsonian and driving
1Department of Geriatric Medicine, University of Birmingham, UK.
International Disability Studies
|January 1, 1989
Summary
Many individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD) stop driving but fail to report their condition to authorities or insurers. This oversight increases anxiety and social isolation, highlighting a need for driving safety re-education programs.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Social Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Parkinson's disease (PD) significantly impacts daily living, including driving ability.
- Driving cessation in PD can contribute to premature social aging and isolation.
- Disclosure of medical conditions to licensing authorities and insurers is often a legal requirement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess driving cessation and reporting practices among individuals with Parkinson's disease.
- To understand the psychological impact of driving cessation on PD patients.
- To identify needs for interventions supporting safe driving in PD.
Main Methods:
- A survey was conducted among 15 members of Parkinson's Disease Society branches.
- The survey assessed driving status, notification of the Driving and Vehicle Licensing Centre (DVLC), and insurance company disclosure.
- Participants reported on accident involvement and driving-related anxiety.
Main Results:
- Most surveyed individuals with Parkinson's disease had stopped driving.
- Only one-third of participants had notified the DVLC of their diagnosis.
- A majority had not informed their insurance companies, and four reported accidents where PD was a factor.
Conclusions:
- Individuals with Parkinson's disease often do not comply with legal requirements for reporting their condition to authorities and insurers.
- Driving cessation exacerbates social aging in Parkinson's disease.
- Encouraging closer liaison with safe driving re-education programs is recommended for affected individuals.