title: A randomized trial of a physical conditioning program to enhance the driving performance of older persons.
abstract: 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.
authors: Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA. Richard.Marottoli@ynhh.org
authors: Richard A
authors: RA
authors: Marottoli
authors: Heather
authors: H
authors: Allore
authors: Katy L B
authors: KL
authors: Araujo
authors: Lynne P
authors: LP
authors: Iannone
authors: Denise
authors: D
authors: Acampora
authors: Margaret
authors: M
authors: Gottschalk
authors: Peter
authors: P
authors: Charpentier
authors: Stanislav
authors: S
authors: Kasl
authors: Peter
authors: P
authors: Peduzzi
mesh_terms: 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