Exploring the Impact of Parkinson's Disease on Driving: A Population-Based Survey

Background: Persons with Parkinson's disease (PD) experience progressive motor and non-motor symptoms which may influence their ability to drive a car. This is experienced as a massive challenge by many affected individuals, for whom being able to drive a car is vital to maintain functional independence.

Objectives: We assessed how the diagnosis of PD affected the possession of a driving license, how people with PD had adapted their driving style, and to what extent they had communicated about their driving ability with their healthcare professionals. We also evaluated their knowledge on insurance- and Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)-related implications.

Method: A cross-sectional 10-item survey was completed by 540 participants of a population-based cohort of persons with PD in the Netherlands (PRIME-NL study).

Results: Participants had a mean age of 70 years and disease duration of 7.3 years. 84% possessed a valid driving license. Of those who gave up their license, this was done mostly (78%) on a voluntarily basis. Forty percent of those with a driving license adjusted their driving style. Over 50% of respondents had not discussed the impact of PD on their driving ability with their healthcare professionals. Although not compulsory by Dutch law, 52% of the respondents had informed the DVLA about their diagnosis.

Conclusion: This study highlights the need for information and support from healthcare professionals to proactively address driving in their clinical practice. This will help persons with PD in their efforts to maintain their driving license for as long as possible.