Study Examines Driving Habits of People with Epilepsy

COLUMBUS, Ohio – Research shows that people with epilepsy continue to drive despite medical restrictions. In a study from the Ohio State University Medical Center, 26 percent of patients with epilepsy reported having an accident due to a seizure and 19 percent said they were dishonest about seizures in order to drive.

The study, published in the journal Epilepsy and Behavior, found that prior attitudes and behavior are difficult to change and participants’ main reason for driving was due to their occupation.

“Instead of focusing on the dangers of driving for patients, it is important to discuss with patients how to overcome perceived and actual barriers to transportation,” says Lucretia Long, author of the study and assistant professor of neurology at The Ohio State University Medical Center. “Addressing health behaviors while counseling persons with epilepsy is also crucial.”

The study also suggests that persons with epilepsy would benefit from employers’ assistance with workplace programs and legislation supporting transportation resources. Allowing people with epilepsy to work from home and providing adequate public assistance are a few options.

The study found that 35 percent of patients said they were not confident to use public transportation. Some feared the possibility of having a seizure, which increases the risk for injury while walking to public bus stations. In addition, a large percentage felt that family and friends were not available to assist with transportation needs.

John Elliot is the co-author and clinical research data manager in the Department of Neurology at The Ohio State University Medical Center.

The study included a total of 213 participants who were asked to complete a 46-item questionnaire with all responses submitted anonymously.

Source: The Ohio State University Medical Center

Editor's note: For people with frequent seizures, it may be dangerous to wait for regular bus or rail services at busy intersections or on open railway platforms, where they may encounter danger during a seizure. Paratransit is a transportation service, required under the Americans with Disabilities Act, available to assist eligible individuals who cannot use the regular public transportation services independently.The services transport the individuals to and from their destinations. Paratransit services are available if you meet specified requirements. For instance, eligibility can be established by showing that limitations associated with epilepsy prevent the individualfrom traveling to or from a bus stop or rail station some or all of the time. To inquire about paratransit services, contact your local transit authority.