[Driving and dementia : An issue for general practice?!]

Area of Science:

• Geriatric Medicine
• Neurology
• Public Health

Background:

• Driving cessation in dementia patients is linked to reduced autonomy and increased accident risk.
• General Practitioners (GPs) are key contacts for dementia patients, managing medical and psychosocial needs, including driving safety.
• Early intervention in driving fitness can mitigate risks and maintain patient mobility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify key aspects of managing driving fitness in dementia patients.
• To determine support needs for German general practices in addressing driving safety.
• To understand the perspectives of patients, caregivers, and GPs on driving cessation.

Main Methods:

• Conducted seven focus groups with dementia patients, family caregivers, and GPs.
• Analyzed transcribed discussions using content analysis by a multidisciplinary research team.
• Gathered insights into the practical challenges and requirements for managing driving fitness.

Main Results:

• Driving cessation in dementia impacts autonomy, creating conflict and uncertainty for patients, caregivers, and GPs.
• GPs face challenges in assessing fitness to drive, fear damaging patient relationships, and are uncertain about their role.
• Caregiver involvement is vital for addressing driving safety and arranging alternative transportation.

Conclusions:

• Development of resource-oriented, patient-centered management strategies for limited mobility in dementia is essential for general practice.
• Balancing documentation, patient information, and patient-centered strategies is a significant challenge.
• GPs require clear criteria for fitness-to-drive assessments, information on mobility alternatives, and support in managing patient expectations.