An analysis of driving characteristics and awareness by older adult mild cognitive impairment drivers Psychosocial factors and environmental design / Living with dementia and quality of life

• Published in: Alzheimer's & dementia Vol. 16; no. S7
• Main Author: Suzuki, Mio
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 01.12.2020
• ISSN: 1552-5260; 1552-5279
• DOI: 10.1002/alz.042135

Abstract Background In Japan, the Traffic Act was revised that Alzheimer drivers prohibited to drive. However, there is no clear relationship between dementia and driving skills. So in this study, we conducted a driving experiment for dementia, mild cognitive impairment, and normal drivers over 65 years old, and compared their driving skills and their awareness. Method I observed driving characteristics on a training course, a car driving school. At first, I analyzed the relationship among scores of screening tests, their driving customs and driving behavior. Secondly, I also observed 7 MCI drivers’ driving behavior on open roads with driving recorders, and compared the driving behavior between at the driving school and the open roads. Result Driving behavior of intersections or parking were not different significantly, but the one of lane change and obstacle avoidance on midblocks was different between MCI and normal drivers significantly. On the other hand, the almost all older adult drivers couldn’t behave safely at intersections. Moreover, the surrounding environment, for example, families or friends, affected to the will to continue driving for MCI drivers. Conclusion Both of MCI or non‐MCI drivers are needed to check their driving skill. And support system should be developed for communication on driving (turn signals, etc.).