Linda Hunt

LONGITUDINAL DRIVING PERFORMANCE IN EARLY-STAGE DEMENTIA OF THE ALZHEIMER TYPE

Objectives: To longitudinally assess on‐road driving performance in healthy older adults and those with early‐stage dementia of the Alzheimer type (DAT).

Driving Performance in Persons with Mild Senile Dementia of the Alzheimer Type

Objective: To assess the effect of mild senile dementia of the Alzheimer type (SDAT) on driving ability.

The role of selective attention in driving and dementia of the Alzheimer type

This paper examines the relationship between cognitive processes and driving in aging and dementia of the Alzheimer type. Several studies that have explored the relationship between neuropsychological test performance and various indicators of driving safety are reviewed. It is argued that deficits in selective attention are specific to impaired driving performance in dementia of the Alzheimer type. Results from a recent study supporting this notion are presented. It is suggested that screening measures that emphasize the ability to selectively attend to relevant information and inhibit irrelevant information should be used to identify mildly demented individuals who are at risk for unsafe driving.

Environmental cueing may effect performance on a road test for drivers with dementia of the Alzheimer type

This paper examines the impact of environmental cueing on a road test for persons with dementia of the Alzheimer type (DAT). In an earlier study, we demonstrated the reliability and stability of the Washington University Road Test in a sample of 58 healthy elderly controls and 65 subjects with DAT. We found that dementia adversely affects driving performance even in its mild stages. Here we elaborate on the results of a follow-up road test conducted 1 month after the baseline test (n = 63) and explore possible reasons why the stability of the follow-up road test was lower than expected. We conclude that environmental cueing may affect performance on a road test in DAT.

Review of the Visual System in Parkinson's Disease

In an era when the prevalence of Parkinsons disease (PD) is increasing because our population is aging, eye care professionals need to become aware of the visual changes experienced by PD patients. This paper reviews the visual pathophysiology of PD and the results of the lack of dopamine on the retina and visual cortex. It also discusses the impact of PD on the oculomotor system and the visual sensory pathways with the consequent effects on reading, balance, and driving abilities of PD patients. Further research on the visual system and PD may provide improved means for early diagnostic testing as well as the possibility of vision rehabilitation for treatment of visual performance impairments.

Strategies and Tools to Enable Safe Mobility for Older Adults

Older adults rely mostly on driving to accomplish their transportation needs. With age-related functional limitations, most notably cognitive decline and dementia, vision impairment, and arthritis, driving may become more challenging. Seniors may need to find ways to maintain or enhance their driving ability or utilize alternate methods of transportation. Based on recent research and product development, a variety of resources are now available to assist rehabilitation specialists and related healthcare professionals in providing programs and information to their older patients. This article provides a comprehensive listing of programs, Web sites, and informational materials to assist older people in remaining safely mobile later in life.

Teaching a Person with Memory Impairment Smartphone Use for Emergencies during Outdoors Walking: Case Report

Safety issues arise during the performance of activities as dementia advances. Occupational therapists collaborate with dementia clients and their caregivers to find solutions and strategies to prolong safe activity participation. Additionally, occupational therapists teach through demonstration showing engagement in specific activities may no longer be safe. We present the case of a 70-year-old male with mild dementia. His caregiver believes he needs to use a smartphone for safety during outdoors walking; the client’s enjoyed and valued occupation. This case report illustrates smartphone use may be difficult to learn for a person with mild dementia. It highlights the need for the caregiver and person with dementia to receive education together for best understanding. New technologies for community mobility such as outdoors walking are considered.