Role of objective and subjective cognitive status on the driving habits of older Canadians: A COMPASS-ND study

Abstract

Background: Individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia often engage in self-regulatory driving behaviours, but less is known about individuals with subjective cognitive impairment (SCI), who perceive cognitive decline without objective evidence of it.

Objective and methods: This study describes the driving status and habits of older Canadians in the COMPASS-ND data set (n = 955) across cognitive groups: cognitively unimpaired (CU), SCI, MCI, and dementia.

Findings: Most participants reported having a driver’s license without restrictions, including over half of the Dementia group, who differed from the other groups by driving less often, shorter distances, and with greater restrictions. Interestingly, on driving frequency and restriction measures, the SCI group showed greater similarity to the MCI than the CU group. Females reported driving less frequently, shorter distances, and with more restrictions than males across cognitive groups.

Discussion: Results suggest that cognitive status and sex influence the driving habits of older adults, with potential implications for autonomy and independent mobility.