The relationship between neuropsychological functioning and driving ability in dementia: a meta-analysis

Neuropsychology. 2004 Jan;18(1):85-93. doi: 10.1037/0894-4105.18.1.85.

Abstract

A meta-analysis of 27 primary studies was conducted to examine the relationship between neuropsychological functioning and driving ability for adults with dementia. When studies using a control group were included, the relationship between cognitive measures and on-road or non-road driving measures was significant for all reported domains; mean correlations ranged from.35 to.65. Caregiver reports of driving ability and cognitive variables were correlated significantly only on measures of mental status and visuospatial skills. When studies using a control group were excluded, moderate mean correlations were observed for visuospatial skills and on-road or non-road measures, and for mental status with non-road tests. Other effects were small or nonsignificant. Implications for basing driving recommendations on neuropsychological testing are discussed.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Meta-Analysis
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aptitude / physiology*
  • Attention
  • Automobile Driving / psychology*
  • Dementia / physiopathology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Language
  • Male
  • Memory
  • Mental Competency
  • Middle Aged
  • Neuropsychological Tests*
  • Problem Solving
  • Psychomotor Performance