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Cognitive and social determinants affecting driving after moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury.

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE: Moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) often results in cognitive deficits that hinder the ability to drive an automobile, which in turn hinders independence and quality of life. Determinants affecting the relationship between impaired cognition and return to driving have been understudied. The current study examined the relationship between cognition and driving status following moderate-to-severe TBI. RESEARCH METHOD/DESIGN: = 8.2 years). Relationships were examined between driving status (active drivers vs. nondrivers), cognitive function (verbal memory, executive function), and covariates (demographics; injury factors including motor function; social factors). RESULTS: < .001), whereas seizure history was not. CONCLUSION/IMPLICATIONS: Memory and executive function are significantly associated with driving status following TBI, but these relationships dissipate after accounting for sociodemographic/injury factors, particularly family income and motor function. Further research is needed to understand the interplay of cognition with other factors in return to driving decisions. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved).

Source: Rehabilitation Psychology

DOI: 10.1037/rep0000609