Article

Background Safe driving is a complex activity that requires calibration. This
means the driver can accurately assess the level of task demand required for task
completion and can accurately evaluate their driving capability. There is much
debate on the calibration ability of post-stroke drivers. Objectives The aim of
this study was to assess the cognition, self-rated performance, and estimation of
task demand in a driving simulator with post-stroke drivers and controls. Methods
A between-groups study design was employed, which included a post-stroke driver
group and a group of similarly aged older control drivers. Both groups were
observed driving in two simulator-based driving scenarios and asked to complete
the NASA Task Load Index (TLX) to assess their perceived task demand and
self-rate their driving performance. Participants also completed a battery of
psychometric tasks to assess attention and executive function, which was used to
determine whether post-stroke cognitive impairment impacted on calibration.
Results There was no difference in the amount of perceived task demand required
to complete the driving task. Despite impairments in cognition, the post-stroke
drivers were not more likely to over-estimate their driving abilities than
controls. On average, the post-stroke drivers self-rated themselves more poorly
than the controls and this rating was related to cognitive ability. Conclusion
This study suggests that post-stroke drivers may be aware of their deficits and
adjust their driving behavior. Furthermore, using self-performance measures
alongside a driving simulator and cognitive assessments may provide complementary
fitness-to-drive assessments, as well as rehabilitation tools during post-stroke
recovery.

Langue : ANGLAIS