A Randomized Trial of a Physical Conditioning Program to Enhance the Driving Performance of Older Persons

BACKGROUND: As the number of older drivers increases, concern has been raised about the potential safety implications. Flexibility, coordination, and speed of movement have been associated with older drivers’ on road performance. OBJECTIVE: To determine whether a multicomponent physical conditioning program targeted to axial and extremity flexibility, coordination, and speed of movement could improve driving performance among older drivers. DESIGN: Randomized controlled trial with blinded assignment and end point assessment. Participants randomized to intervention underwent graduated exercises; controls received home, environment safety modules. PARTICIPANTS: Drivers, 178, age ≥ 70 years with physical, but without substantial visual (acuity 20/40 or better) or cognitive (Mini Mental State Examination score ≥24) impairments were recruited from clinics and community sources. MEASUREMENTS: On-road driving performance assessed by experienced evaluators in dual-brake equipped vehicle in urban, residential, and highway traffic. Performance rated three ways: (1) 36-item scale evaluating driving maneuvers and traffic situations; (2) evaluator’s overall rating; and (3) critical errors committed. Driving performance reassessed at 3 months by evaluator blinded to treatment group. RESULTS: Least squares mean change in road test scores at 3 months compared to baseline was 2.43 points higher in intervention than control participants (P = .03). Intervention drivers committed 37% fewer critical errors (P = .08); there were no significant differences in evaluator’s overall ratings (P = .29). No injuries were reported, and complaints of pain were rare. CONCLUSIONS: This safe, well-tolerated intervention maintained driving performance, while controls declined during the study period. Having interventions that can maintain or enhance driving performance may allow clinician–patient discussions about driving to adopt a more positive tone, rather than focusing on driving limitation or cessation

A study of the Thornbury & district Stroke Support Group

SIGLEAvailable from British Library Document Supply Centre- DSC:q95/09810 / BLDSC - British Library Document Supply CentreGBUnited Kingdo

A study of the Frenchay stroke clubs - part of the Bristol & Avon Stroke Support Group

SIGLEAvailable from British Library Document Supply Centre- DSC:q95/09811 / BLDSC - British Library Document Supply CentreGBUnited Kingdo

A new platform for offshore exploration and production

Accurate data are essential for developing climate models and weather forecasts used in planning offshore E&P operations. A new remotely controlled, autonomous marine vehicle has been developed to carry a variety of sensors for conducting detailed meteorological and oceanographic surveys across vast distances and under extreme conditions. The role of this new sensor platform is expanding to support an even broader range of missions