Objective : The objective of this study is to comprehensively analyze and evaluate the effectiveness, level of evidence, and limitations of driving intervention programs aimed at maintaining and improving the driving ability of older adults with cognitive impairment.
Methods : A systematic search of major domestic and international databases (e.g., Pubmed, Embase) was conducted for relevant literature published up to September 2025. Following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, a final selection of six studies (three randomized controlled trials [RCTs], three non-randomized studies [NRSs]) was made. The methodological quality of the selected studies was assessed for risk of bias using the RoB 2.0 and ROBINS-I tools. Due to heterogeneity, the results were analyzed using a narrative synthesis.
Results : The three high-quality RCTs showed that on-road driving training and personalized feedback significantly improved driving safety scores. In contrast, the three non-randomized studies, which had a ‘serious’ risk of bias, indicated that simulator-based training had the potential to reduce driving errors but possessed clear methodological limitations, such as the lack of control groups. The long-term sustainability of intervention effects was variable across the studies.
Conclusion : Driving interventions for older adults with cognitive impairment show potential for improving driving ability, but the evidence differs markedly depending on the study design. Currently, interventions centered on real-vehicle-based feedback are supported by a higher level of evidence. Future large-scale RCTs are needed for the rigorous verification of intervention effects and their long-term sustainability, based on standardized outcome measures.