Work

Predicting mild cognitive impairment from simulated driving performance: A preliminary investigation

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to determine whether simulated driving performance in challenging environmental conditions can predict mild cognitive impairment (MCI). METHODS: = 42) participants completed a simulated driving scenario with two challenging sections involving inclement weather and navigating an unfamiliar environment. Speed and steering outcomes were assessed. RESULTS: The inclement weather logistic regression model distinguished cognitive status with more than 75% accuracy. However, the route planning model was unable to significantly distinguish individuals based on cognitive status. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses revealed a significant area under the curve (AUC) for the inclement weather model, with an optimal cutoff yielding 78.4% apparent sensitivity. DISCUSSION: The present findings highlight the potential value of simulated driving in challenging conditions as sensitive functional markers of early cognitive impairment. These preliminary findings provide the foundation for naturalistic and longitudinal studies to establish whether driving assessments can meaningfully capture functional changes associated with the onset of cognitive impairment.

Source: Alzheimer s & Dementia Diagnosis Assessment & Disease Monitoring

DOI: 10.1002/dad2.70514

Authors: Stefan Delmas, Anjali Tiwari, Joy DeJong Lago, Neha Lodha

Institutions: Colorado State University, University of Colorado Health

Language: English

Topic: Older Adults Driving Studies

Subfield: Geriatrics and Gerontology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,540