Driving simulator training for adults with acquired brain injury
Official title: Use Of Driving Simulator To Provide Pre-Driving Training For Adults With Acquired Brain Injuries.
Run by Sacred Heart University · NCT07378592 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project will test whether eight sessions of driving-simulator training help adults with acquired brain injury become more comfortable, confident, and ready for on-road driving compared with traditional occupational therapy.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Sacred Heart University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Fairfield, Connecticut) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | November 15, 2025 |
| Main results expected | June 30, 2026 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | January 30, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07378592 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults over 18 with a diagnosed acquired brain injury who held a valid driver's license and drove prior to their injury, and who do not have moderate-to-severe cognitive impairment or disqualifying vision problems, are ideal candidates.
✕Probably not a fit
People with moderate-to-severe cognitive impairment, significant visual acuity or field deficits, those under 18, or those without a prior driving history or valid license are unlikely to benefit from this intervention.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
Phase 3 of a project that began as a capstone, this randomized interventional project will assign eligible adults with acquired brain injury to either eight sessions of driving-simulator training or eight sessions of traditional occupational therapy. All participants will complete the same pre- and post-tests that measure readiness-to-drive, comfort, and confidence. Control-group participants will be offered simulator training after completing traditional therapy, and all participants will be referred for certified behind-the-wheel assessments following completion. The occupational therapy faculty aim to quantify how simulator training affects pre-driving skills and preparation for on-road driving.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, participants could gain greater comfort, confidence, and independence in driving and be better prepared for behind-the-wheel assessments.
How similar studies have gone: Previous small studies and pilot projects of driving-simulator training have shown promising gains in simulator performance and self-reported confidence, but larger randomized comparisons remain limited.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Adult participants over 18 years * Diagnosed acquired brain injury * A valid driver's license * History of driving prior to injury Exclusion Criteria: * Age less than 18 years * Moderate to severe cognitive impairment, as measured on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment * Visual acuity or visual field issues
Where it's running
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Sacred Heart University
Fairfield, Connecticut, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Sheelagh Schlegel, DrHSc, MPH, OTR/L — Sacred Heart University
- Study coordinator: Sheelagh M Schlegel, DrHSc, MPH, OTR/L
- Email: schlegels@sacredheart.edu
- Phone: 203 365 4773
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.