A new study has unveiled a significant link between major depressive disorder (MDD) and risky driving behaviors among adults aged 65 and older. Conducted by Ganesh M. Babulal, PhD, OTD, an associate professor of neurology at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, the research focused on the driving habits of this demographic group, revealing concerns about their road safety. The study, published in JAMA Network Open on December 30, 2024, highlights the increased likelihood of behaviors such as hard braking and speeding in older adults diagnosed with MDD.
The research recruited 395 participants aged 65 and above, including 85 individuals diagnosed with major depressive disorder. Using real-world driving data from vehicle data loggers, the study monitored various driving behaviors like hard braking, cornering, randomness of routes, speeding, and distances traveled. The findings indicate that drivers with depression are more prone to engage in these risky behaviors.
“As the population of older adults continues to grow, with many relying on driving for independence, employment, and social engagement,” he added, “understanding how depression impacts driving behaviors is crucial for promoting safety and quality of life.”
The study's focus on older adults stems from the prevalence and often underdiagnosed nature of late-life depression. Carolina Estevez, PsyD, emphasized that depression affects safe driving abilities regardless of age, noting that mental health is pivotal for maintaining safety on the road.
“Driving is something many of us take for granted, but it’s a complex activity that requires both mental and physical sharpness,” Estevez said. “Taking care of your mental health isn’t just about feeling better—it’s about staying safe and confident behind the wheel.”
The research also underscores the importance of regular medical follow-ups to ensure well-being and safe driving among those with depression. Michelle Dees, MD, highlighted how these check-ups can play a crucial role in maintaining road safety.
While the study did not account for other psychiatric conditions occurring alongside MDD, its relevance extends beyond older adults. Babulal suggests that further exploration into how depression affects younger drivers is necessary.
“Further research is needed to explore these effects in younger populations and develop age-appropriate interventions to enhance driving safety for all individuals with depression,” Babulal said.
Estevez supports this view, noting that younger drivers might have better physical health but can still be challenged by symptoms such as fatigue and emotional distress.
“Younger drivers might have quicker reflexes and better physical health, but symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, and emotional distress can still make driving more challenging,” Estevez said. “This study really drives home the point that depression doesn’t just live in your thoughts—it affects how you function in day-to-day life, including something as routine as driving.”
Simon Faynboym, MD, emphasized the need for regular mental health screenings for older adults without a history of depression to identify potentially risky driving behavior early.
“Seeing a mental health specialist, such as a therapist, to learn about self-awareness and to understand driving limitations,” he told Health.
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