A randomized trial of a physical conditioning program to enhance the driving performance of older persons.
BACKGROUND
As the number of older drivers increases, concern has been raised about the potential safety implications. Flexibility, coordination, and speed of movement have been associated with older drivers' on road performance.


OBJECTIVE
To determine whether a multicomponent physical conditioning program targeted to axial and extremity flexibility, coordination, and speed of movement could improve driving performance among older drivers.


METHODS
Randomized controlled trial with blinded assignment and end point assessment. Participants randomized to intervention underwent graduated exercises; controls received home, environment safety modules.


METHODS
Drivers, 178, age > or = 70 years with physical, but without substantial visual (acuity 20/40 or better) or cognitive (Mini Mental State Examination score > or =24) impairments were recruited from clinics and community sources.


METHODS
On-road driving performance assessed by experienced evaluators in dual-brake equipped vehicle in urban, residential, and highway traffic. Performance rated three ways: (1) 36-item scale evaluating driving maneuvers and traffic situations; (2) evaluator's overall rating; and (3) critical errors committed. Driving performance reassessed at 3 months by evaluator blinded to treatment group.


RESULTS
Least squares mean change in road test scores at 3 months compared to baseline was 2.43 points higher in intervention than control participants (P = .03). Intervention drivers committed 37% fewer critical errors (P = .08); there were no significant differences in evaluator's overall ratings (P = .29). No injuries were reported, and complaints of pain were rare.


CONCLUSIONS
This safe, well-tolerated intervention maintained driving performance, while controls declined during the study period. Having interventions that can maintain or enhance driving performance may allow clinician-patient discussions about driving to adopt a more positive tone, rather than focusing on driving limitation or cessation.
Marottoli
Richard A
RA
Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA. Richard.Marottoli@ynhh.org
Allore
Heather
H
Araujo
Katy L B
KL
Iannone
Lynne P
LP
Acampora
Denise
D
Gottschalk
Margaret
M
Charpentier
Peter
P
Kasl
Stanislav
S
Peduzzi
Peter
P
D000063:Accidents, Traffic / Q000517:prevention & control; D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001334:Automobile Driving; D015444:Exercise; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011597:Psychomotor Performance