Understanding the risks of car accidents in older adults with Alzheimer's and related dementias
The risks and consequences of a motor vehicle crash in older adults with Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias
This study looks at how older adults with Alzheimer's and similar conditions might be more likely to get into car accidents because of changes in their thinking and senses, and it aims to find ways to keep them safer on the road as their condition changes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brown University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Providence, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10865057 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how older adults with Alzheimer's Disease (AD) and related dementias are at a higher risk of being involved in motor vehicle crashes due to cognitive and sensory impairments. By analyzing a large dataset of Medicare claims linked to driving records over 13 years, the study aims to identify how the risk of crashes changes as the disease progresses and how these incidents affect the health and care needs of these individuals. The findings could help inform safer driving practices and policies for older adults with cognitive impairments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include older adults diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease or related dementias, particularly those who may still be driving or have a history of driving.
Not a fit: Patients who are not diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease or related dementias, or those who do not drive, may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved safety measures and support for older adults with Alzheimer's and related dementias, potentially reducing the incidence of motor vehicle crashes.
How similar studies have performed: While there is limited longitudinal data specifically addressing this issue, previous studies have indicated varying driving abilities among individuals with cognitive impairments, suggesting that this research could fill a significant knowledge gap.
Where this research is happening
Providence, United States
- Brown University — Providence, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Joyce, Nina — Brown University
- Study coordinator: Joyce, Nina
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.