| dc.description.abstract | The older driving population is continuing to increase, and with age comes cognitive and
physical changes that may negatively affect driving abilities. Despite the aging process,
researchers have found that age is not the only predictor of on-road driving test outcomes.
Recently researchers have suggested that overall cognitive functioning may be predictive of
overall driving abilities in older drivers. The current study examines the associations between
demographics, cognitive abilities, and driving abilities. In addition the current research addresses
a novel inquiry into the ability of neuropsychological tests to predict responders to a driving
refresher course. Participants consisted of 65 subjects, who held a valid driver’s license, were
currently driving, and were between 55 and 86 years of age (31 female, 34 male). Upon
completion of a series of neuropsychological tests participants were block randomized into either
a driving refresher course group or a waitlist control group. Prior to and following the refresher
course or waiting period participants completed a standardized on-road test. Results indicated
that age was negatively associated with baseline driving ability but was not associated with
overall change in driving scores. Neuropsychological tests were associated with specific baseline
driving abilities and change scores. A multiple regression model for overall change in driving
ability included baseline ability, age, education, the Motor-Free Visual Perception Test, and the
Stroop test and accounted for 35% of the variability in overall change scores. | |
