Beyond Driving Performance: Understanding Driving Experiences and Assistance Needs of Drivers with Parkinson's Disease

Abstract

Parkinson’s disease (PD) can impair abilities essential for safe and independent driving. However, little is known about how individuals with PD experience driving and perceive current driver assistance systems. At the same time, advances in driver assistance technologies may offer new opportunities to support mobility, independence, and continued participation in road traffic. To investigate these experiences and perceptions, we conducted an online survey with N = 52 individuals diagnosed with PD, followed by N = 9 semi-structured interviews exploring driving experiences, changes in driving ability, and attitudes toward assistance technologies. Our findings show that driving remains important for independence and quality of life, with many participants adapting their driving behavior rather than ceasing driving altogether. While driver assistance systems were generally perceived positively, participants emphasized the need for solutions that accommodate the diverse and evolving symptoms of PD. Based on these findings, we discuss opportunities and identify research directions for the design of PD-aware driver assistance technologies.