Age-Related Effect of Sleepiness on Driving Performance: A Systematic-Review

Abstract

Background: Several studies highlighted that sleepiness affects driving abilities. In particular, road traffic injuries due to excessive daytime sleepiness are about 10–20%. Considering that aging is related to substantial sleep changes and the number of older adults with driving license is increasing, the current review aims to summarize recent studies on this issue. Further, we intend to provide insights for future research. Methods: From the 717 records screened, ten articles were selected and systematically reviewed. Results: Among the selected articles, (a) five studies investigated sleepiness only by self-reported standardized measures; (b) two studies assessed sleepiness also using a behavioral task; (c) three studies obtained objective measures by electroencephalographic recordings. Conclusions: The available literature on the topic reports several limitations. Overall, many findings converge in evidencing that older drivers are less vulnerable to sleep loss and sleepiness-related driving impairments than young adults. These discrepancies in sleepiness vulnerability between age groups may be ascribed to differences in subjects’ lifestyles. Moreover, it has been hypothesized that older adults self-regulate their driving and avoid specific dangerous situations. We believe that an easy protocol to objectively evaluate the vigilance level in elderly and young adults is required, and further studies are needed.

Effects of Automation and Fatigue on Drivers from Various Age Groups

“…In a review of 10 driver sleepiness studies, Scarpelli et al [34] concluded that older drivers are less vulnerable to sleep loss and sleepiness-related driving impairments than young adults. For example, Campagne et al [35] compared the frequency of driving errors and the vigilance of older drivers (60-70 years) and younger drivers (20-30 years and 40-50 years) during long, monotonous night driving sessions in the simulator.…”

Epidemiology, Physiology and Clinical Approach to Sleepiness at the Wheel in OSA Patients: A Narrative Review

“…Sleepiness at the wheel should be specifically investigated, since the risk for car accidents is high in subjects reporting episodes of severe SW [25] and in patients with OSA [26]. Although elderly subjects often report sleepiness, the risk for a poor driving performance associated with sleepiness is lower in old adults compared to young adults, possibly because the former tend to avoid what they perceive as dangerous situations-for example, driving at night [27]. Conversely, risky driving behavior was associated with an increased risk for accidents [28].…”