The study, published in the journal Neurology, involved an on-road driving test of 71 people with mild to moderate Parkinson disease who were current drivers and 147 people of similar age with no neurological disorders.
While driving, the participants were given a verbal addition task that simulates the amount of distraction similar to having a conversation with a passenger or using a cell phone while driving.
While distracted, 28 percent of those with Parkinson disease made more driving safety mistakes than they did when they were not distracted, compared to 16 percent of those who did not have Parkinson disease. Those with Parkinson who made more safety mistakes and had poorer ability to control their speed and steering due to effects of distraction also did worse on tests of memory, vision and balance and the ability to switch attention between competing tasks, and were more likely to have excessive daytime sleepiness.
“The abilities of the people with Parkinson disease varied greatly, which in some ways is not surprising because this disease affects people very differently,” said neurologist and principal investigator Ergun Uc, MD, of the University of Iowa and the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Iowa City. “Clearly, Parkinson disease can affect the ability to drive, and that effect grows as the disease progresses. People with Parkinson disease should be aware of this potential decline in driving ability and their family and friends should also monitor it and then recheck periodically.”
Source: American Academy of Neurology
Related News Articles
- Epilepsy Drug Helps Parkinson Tremors
- Drug Improves Bone Density for Parkinson’s
- Medication Aids Parkinson’s
- Impaired by One Drink?
- Early Alzheimer’s Ups Driving Risk
- Diagnosis and Treatment for Newly Diagnosed Parkinson Disease
- Screening and Treatment for Depression, Dementia and Psychosis in Parkinson Disease
- Medical and Surgical Treatment for Parkinson Disease
- Alzheimer's Medications and Coping
- Facts About Alzheimer's Disease
