Year: 2016
Type: dissertation
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: The United States is experiencing a demographic transition as the population of older adults increases.Many older adults continue to work and drive to support and sustain economic and social health.However, for some, the aging process can be accompanied by declines in cognitive and physical capacity which may increase the risk of a collision or injury.This dissertation examined the association between cognitive and physical function and the risk of motor vehicle collision or occupational injury among older adults.Chapters 2 and 3 explored crash risk associated with cognitive decline and dementia among older drivers.By 2024, 25% of US drivers will be over the age of 65 years.The fatal crash involvement rate among older drivers begins to increase after age 65.Driving simulator and road test studies found lower driving performance associated with lower cognitive function.In chapter 2, we conducted a retrospective cohort study to examine the association between incremental differences in cognition and crash risk among older drivers without dementia.Cognitive function was measured using the Cognitive Abilities Screening Instrument-Item Response Theory (CASI-IRT) score.Older adult participants were drawn from the Group Health Adult Changes in Thought (ACT) Study.ACT records were merged with Washington State crash and licensure records.Eligible participants were age 65 and above and had an active driver's license.We used a generalized estimating equation model with robust standard errors, clustered pg.
Author: Laura Fraade-Blanar
Language: English
Topic: Older Adults Driving Studies
Subfield: Geriatrics and Gerontology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
Award: G1759369093
OpenAlex ID: W2597557447