Testing Cognitive Functions in Patients With COPD Using a Driving Simulator

Testing Cognitive Functions in Patients With COPD Using a Driving Simulator

Little is known about the causes and degree of cognitive dysfunction in patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), especially their driving abilities. The purpose of the study is to examine the cognitive skills of patients with COPD by using a driving simulator and to examine correlations to factors that may predict cognitive dysfunction in these patients.

Inclusion Criteria:

• a diagnosis of COPD (Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second (FEV1) / Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) < 0,70)
• no exacerbations within the last 6 weeks
• valid driver's license and having driven a car within the last 3 months

Exclusion Criteria:

• lacking the ability to use the driving simulator
• no valid driver's license
• alcohol abuse (> 21 units per week)
• a known diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea
• uncorrected impaired vision or hearing
• unstable ischemic heart disease, left-sided heart failure, severe neurologic diseases, cancer, severe peripheral vascular disease, severe psychiatric diseases, former apoplexia and uncontrolled hypertension, thyroid diseases or diabetes