[Driving and dementia: Case analysis in a cognitive disorders diagnostic unit]

Abstract

Objective: To determine clinical characteristics of patients with dementia who are currently driving and to analyse the way driving cessation is put into operation and the difficulties identified by patient and family.

Method: A descriptive study of patients evaluated during 2 years in a Cognitive Disorders Assessment Clinic in the Hospital Universitari de la Santa Creu de Vic (Barcelona, Spain), who were driving at the time of diagnosis. General and functional patient data were recorded and a questionnaire was later completed by their relatives.

Results: Data was collected on a total of 40 patients (20% of patients diagnosed with dementia), with a mean age 77.6 years, 87.5% male, and 90% cases of Alzheimer type dementia. Almost two-thirds (60%) were in early stages of dementia, 12.5% moderate initial-stage, and 27.5% moderate stage. After one year, 70.3% of cases had stopped driving. In 42% of these, the family considered that the process was complicated. In 58% of cases, the patient did not accept the decision.

Conclusion: Most active drivers at the time of diagnosis of dementia are men with Alzheimer disease at an early stage. After one year, one third of them were still driving. The driving cessation can be difficult for patients and families.

Keywords: Conducción; Demencia; Dementia; Driving; Fragilidad; Frailty.