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Re-activateThree simple tests that take just 15 minutes in a doctor's office can help people who've had a stroke determine when they can safely get back behind the wheel, according to a study in the Feb. 22, 2011, issue of Neurology, the journal of the American Academy of Neurology.
Researchers analyzed 30 previous trials, including 1,728 stroke victims with an average age of 61. All the studies involved three in-office tests taken about 9 months after the stroke: a road-sign recognition test that assesses traffic knowledge and visual comprehension; a compass test that examines visual-perceptual and mental speed; and a trail-making test that measures visual-motor tracking and visual scanning abilities.
"People who've had a stroke should talk with their doctor about the tests," says Orly Avitzur, M.D., medical adviser to Consumer Reports and a board-certified neurologist. "If necessary, they should ask for a referral to neuropsychologist or occupational therapist experienced in giving them." In addition, people recovering from a stroke should make sure that they are enrolled in a comprehensive rehabilitation program, and ask about the various adaptive devices that can help people recovering from a stroke drive safely.
—Joel Keehn, senior editor
Read about when it's time to take the keys from an older driver, as well as research showing that older drivers can be safe drivers.
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