Subcortical Ischemic Change as a Predictor of Driving Cessation in the Elderly

• Published in: Psychiatry investigation 2018, 15(12), , pp.1162-1167
• Main Authors: Jang, Mi, Hong, Chang Hyung, Kim, Hyun-Chung, Choi, Seong Hye, Seo, Sang Won, Kim, Seong Yoon, Na, Duk L, Lee, Yunhwan, Chang, Ki Jung, Roh, Hyun Woong, Son, Sang Joon
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Original; 정신과학
• ISSN: 1738-3684; 1976-3026
• DOI: 10.30773/pi.2018.10.10.3

Motor, perceptual, and cognitive functions are known to affect driving competence. Subcortical ischemic changes on brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can reflect reduction in cognitive and motor performance. However, few studies have reported the relationship between subcortical ischemic changes and driving competence of the elderly. Thus, the objective of this study was to investigate the association between subcortical ischemic changes on MRI and driving abilities of the elderly. Participants (n=540) were drawn from a nationwide, multicenter, hospital-based, longitudinal cohort. Each participant underwent MRI scan and interview for driving capacity categorized into 'now driving' and 'driving cessation (driven before, not driving now)'. Participants were divided into three groups (mild, n=389; moderate, n=116; and severe, n=35) depending on the degree of white matter hyperintensity (WMH) on MRI at baseline. Driving status was evaluated at follow-up. Statistical analyses were conducted using χ2 test, analysis of variance (ANOVA), structured equation model (SEM), and generalized estimating equation (GEE). In SEM, greater baseline degree of WMH was directly associated with driving cessation regardless of cognitive or motor dysfunction (β=-0.110, p