Are your driving habits changing? Neurologist says these 9 signs may appear years before Alzheimer’s diagnosis

Are you getting lost or braking suddenly? These could be linked to Alzheimer’s.

Driving is considered a critical life skill and is closely associated with independence, allowing you to travel anywhere without relying on others. Driving requires precise coordination between the brain, eyes, hands, and legs, along with attention, judgement, and quick decision-making. This means that subtle changes in a person's driving habits should be inspected closely, as they may give a glimpse into their cognitive health.

Let's understand from a specialist why driving habits are not simply a matter of personal choice, such as deciding whether to drive fast or slowly, take a shortcut, or stick to familiar routes. In some cases, subtle changes in these habits demonstrate the earliest effects of changes happening within the brain.

Dr J D Mukherji, chairman and head of neurology at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, New Delhi, spoke about the possible connection between changes in driving habits and Alzheimer's disease.

How are driving changes related to Alzheimer's?

Older adults who are experiencing driving problems should get a comprehensive neurological check. (Picture credit: Freepik)

The neurologist cited a study published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia on November 23, 2022, which examined whether changes in driving behaviour could occur before noticeable cognitive symptoms or a formal Alzheimer's diagnosis.

He elaborated on the findings of the study, “It examined natural driving patterns among 137 cognitively normal adults aged 65 years and above using vehicle monitoring systems. Researchers found that individuals with biological markers associated with preclinical Alzheimer’s disease showed a gradual increase in unsafe driving behaviours over time, despite not having noticeable cognitive symptoms.”

Finally, the expert highlighted the study findings that demonstrate that changes in driving behaviour may emerge years before memory problems become clinically apparent, providing another window for recognising early changes in the brain.

Alzheimer's is a progressive disease, which means its symptoms gradually worsen over time. Since there is currently no cure, much of the focus remains on early detection. As per the neurologist, one of the most concerning characteristics of this neurodegenerative condition is that it develops slowly over many years.

"During this period, abnormal proteins gradually accumulate within the brain, affecting networks responsible for memory, judgement, planning and spatial awareness,” he said.

What is the first commonly recognised sign of Alzheimer's disease? Dr Mukherji identified it as memory loss. However, even before memory problems become noticeable, changes may occur in executive functions, such as the ability to process information, make decisions, and respond appropriately to changing situations. Since driving relies heavily on these abilities, the neurologist noted that there is a strong link between changes in driving behaviour and the brain changes associated with Alzheimer's disease.

Early brain changes that may influence driving include

Here are some signs that older adults may show that may indicate the chances of neurodegenerative disease:

1. Difficulty navigating familiar routes
2. Missing road signs or traffic signals
3. Slower reaction time when unexpected situations arise
4. Trouble judging speed, distance or the movement of surrounding vehicles
5. Becoming confused at busy intersections or while following directions
6. Reduced confidence while driving in heavy traffic or at night
7. Getting lost on previously, familiar routes
8. Erratic driving behaviour, like driving well under the speed limit, or sudden inappropriate braking
9. Getting confused between the gas and the brake paddles, ignoring traffic signs

The neurologist clarified that changes in driving habits do not necessarily mean Alzheimer's disease. Similar difficulties may occur because of poor vision, hearing impairments, medication side effects, sleep disorders, depression, anxiety, or other neurological conditions.

But if these driving-related changes are accompanied by heightened forgetfulness, difficulty managing finances, problems organising routine tasks, or repeated confusion in familiar surroundings, it is important to seek a comprehensive neurological evaluation.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.