Predictors of driving cessation, independent living, and power of attorney decisions by dementia patients and caregivers

Sarah Wackerbarth, Mitzi M.S. Johnson

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

13 Scopus citations

Abstract

This study examines factors associated with decisions made by dementia patients and their caregivers regarding whether the patient should cease driving, live alone or with their spouse, and assign a Durable Power of Attorney. Using data collected by the Alzheimer's Disease Research Center (ADRC) in the Memory Disorders Clinic at the University of Kentucky Medical Center, we analyzed 827 first visits to predict patients' and caregivers' decisions. Caregiver relationship and patient gender and perceptions of patient abilities, as measured by Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) were more important than cognitive functioning, as measured by the MMSE, in predicting decisions made. These findings have theoretical implications for modeling the impact of the course of the disease and practical implications for interventions aimed at supporting the decision-making processes of patients and caregivers.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)283-288
Number of pages6
JournalAmerican Journal of Alzheimer's Disease and other Dementias
Volume14
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - 1999

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Neuroscience
  • Clinical Psychology
  • Geriatrics and Gerontology
  • Psychiatry and Mental health

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