Cognitive speed of processing training delays driving cessation

Abstract

Background: As our population ages, interventions that can prolong safe driving for older adults will be increasingly important.

Methods: Data from two studies were combined in order to investigate the effectiveness of cognitive training in delaying driving cessation. Stratified Cox hazard regressions were used to examine risk of driving cessation as a function of training participation, baseline driving, and visual acuity.

Results: Older drivers with cognitive speed of processing difficulties who completed speed of processing training were 40% less likely to cease driving over the subsequent 3 years (hazard ratio = 0.596, 95% confidence interval 0.356-0.995, p = .048). Whereas 14% of older drivers who did not receive speed of processing training ceased driving, only 9% of those who completed eight or more sessions of speed of processing training ceased driving.

Conclusion: Speed of processing training may delay driving cessation among older drivers with speed of processing difficulty.

Figures

Figure 1.

Results of Cox regression analyses survival status for training versus control conditions in the Staying Keen in Later Life (SKILL) study.

Figure 2.

Results of Cox regression analyses survival status for training versus control conditions in the Advanced Cognitive Training for Independent and Vital Elderly (ACTIVE) study.