A Caregiver Survey of Driving Readiness in Teens Born Extremely Preterm

Abstract

Introduction

Teens born extremely preterm (defined as a gestational age of <28 weeks) are at a higher risk of cognitive and physical disabilities, potentially affecting their ability to learn to drive safely. This exploratory study surveyed caregivers to obtain their perceptions of driving readiness in teens born extremely preterm.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey of caregivers of teens (aged 14–18 years) residing in Ohio who were born extremely preterm was conducted to assess teen interest and progress in obtaining a driver’s license, reasons for their lack of progress, and caregiver involvement in helping their teen to learn to drive.

Results

The sample included 60 caregivers of teens distributed across 4 age groups based on license eligibility. Most teens (87%) had a history of a neurodevelopmental or medical disorder. Only 9 (30%) of 30 teens aged <18 years who were age-eligible for a temporary permit had obtained one, and only 1 (7%) of 14 teens who was age-eligible for a probationary license had obtained one. Rates of neurological disorders and concerns that the teen lacked maturity to drive or would get lost were significantly higher in 25 age-eligible teens who were not driving than in the 20 teens who were driving (p=0.013 and 0.038, respectively). Caregivers frequently talked to their teens about driving but less often practiced driving with their teens.

Conclusions

Delays in progressing toward obtaining a driving license are common in teens born extremely preterm. The findings from this study describe these delays and provide information on caregiver concerns and involvement in driving. Future research is needed to characterize and improve driving readiness in this population.