The objective of this study was to evaluate driving competency and the relationship between neuropsychiatric symptoms and driving behaviour in frontotemporal dementia (FTD) patients. Fifteen patients with a diagnosis of FTD and 15 healthy controls were administered a driving simulation task. Measures of driving performance and neuropsychiatric symptoms were assessed. The FTD patients received more speeding tickets, ran more stop signs and were involved in more off-road crashes and collisions than the controls. The patients' overall average speed was significantly higher. Driving performance was correlated with agitated behaviour. Behavioural changes characteristic of FTD patients have an impact on their driving skills leading to inappropriate driving behaviour. (Author/publisher)
Abstract