Driving Habits Linked to Early Alzheimer’s Risk, New Research Suggests
Lisbon, Portugal - December 7, 2025 – Subtle changes in driving behavior, such as increased reaction times or difficulty navigating familiar routes, may serve as early indicators of Alzheimer’s disease, according to emerging research highlighted by Portuguese news outlet ZAP. These findings, gaining traction as diagnostic tools evolve, offer a potential non-invasive method for identifying individuals at risk years before traditional symptoms manifest.
The ability to safely operate a vehicle relies on a complex interplay of cognitive functions – spatial reasoning,attention,judgment,and reaction time – all of which are progressively impaired by Alzheimer’s. Researchers are now exploring how routinely collected driving data, combined with advanced analytical techniques, could provide a crucial early warning system for the disease, impacting an estimated 55 million people globally. Early detection is critical,as emerging therapies might potentially be most effective when administered in the initial stages of cognitive decline.ZAP reports on resources for staying informed, including a newsletter subscription link (https://zap.aeiou.pt/subscrever-newsletter) and links to follow their coverage on whatsapp (https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaIC4EE2f3EJZPPSbR34) and Google News (https://news.google.com/publications/CAAiEHRwZondIV71PDjWNoqMduEqFAgKIhB0cGaJ3SFe9Tw41jaKjHbh?hl=en-US&gl=US&ceid=US%3Aen).
While not a definitive diagnostic tool,analysis of driving patterns – including speed variations,lane deviations,and near-miss incidents – is showing promise in identifying individuals who may benefit from further cognitive evaluation. The research builds on decades of understanding the neurological impact of Alzheimer’s and leverages the increasing availability of data from connected vehicles and telematics systems.
