Associations of biomarkers, cognition and self-reports of sensory function with self-reported driving behaviour and confidence

Abstract

Background: Older adults report self-regulating their driving habits but little is known about factors associated with driving habits and driving confidence.

Objective: We aimed to evaluate cognitive performance, biomarkers and self-reported sensory function as correlates of self-reported driving behaviour and confidence.

Methods: A volunteer sample of 153 drivers aged between 60 and 90 were assessed on biomarkers (vision, hearing, vibration sense, grip strength and FEV(1)), and cognitive performance. A subsample of 121 also completed a questionnaire on driving behaviour, driving confidence and self-reported sensory function. Structural equation modelling techniques were used to evaluate the relative importance of subjective and performance-based variables.

Results: Driving behaviour and confidence were associated with cognitive performance, biomarkers, chronological age and one question on self-rated hearing difficulty. Structural equation modelling showed that biomarkers were most important in predicting self- reported driving behaviour.

Conclusion: These results suggest that individuals self-monitor according to their physiological well-being and report their driving behaviour accordingly.