NCT06672107 · VA Office of Research and Development
Driver Simulator Training to Improve Driving After Stroke
What this study is about
One hundred Veteran stroke survivors will participate in both an Active Driver Training intervention and a Control intervention in a fully interactive driving simulator. In addition, all participants will complete pre- and post-intervention driving assessments in the driving simulator to measure driving performance and types of driving errors committed.
View original scientific description
One hundred Veteran stroke survivors will participate in both an Active Driver Training intervention and a Control intervention in a fully interactive driving simulator. In addition, all participants will complete pre- and post-intervention driving assessments in the driving simulator to measure driving performance and types of driving errors committed. Half the participants will receive the Active Driver Training first, whereas the other half will receive the Control intervention first. Each Active Driver Training session will provide targeted practice and feedback on each of four unique driving skills including: speed management, collision avoidance, lane positioning, and dashboard attention. The Control intervention will be matched for total time but will only provide extra familiarization with the operation of the driving simulator, with no skill-specific practice. It is predicted that the Active Driver Training Intervention will result in improved driving performance, relative to the Control condition. In addition, after a delay period of at least 6 months, all participants will be re-assessed in the driving simulator and will complete a survey to capture changes in driving status.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Active Driver Training Intervention
simulated driver training focusing on practice of 4 specific driving skills including lane positioning, speed management, collision avoidance, and dashboard attention
BEHAVIORAL
Control Intervention
pre-scripted familiarization with driving simulator controls in the absence of any complex driving scenarios, decision making requirements, or feedback pertaining to driving skills
Primary outcome measures
Driving Score-post Active Training Intervention
Time frame: 4 weeks
Numerical score generated from the simulated Driving Assessment that takes place after the Active Driver Training intervention.
Driving Score- post Control Intervention
Time frame: 4 weeks
Numerical score generated from the simulated Driving Assessment that takes place after the Control intervention.
6-mo followup Driving Score
Time frame: 6 months
Driving Assessment after a 6-mo post-intervention delay
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- U.S. Veterans
- History of a unilateral stroke (at least 3 months post-onset)
- pre-morbidly right hand dominant
- prior driving experience/U.S. driver's license
Exclusion criteria
- History of other neurologic illness (e.g., TBI, dementia, epilepsy, Parkinson's, etc.)
- History of severe psychiatric illness (e.g., schizophrenia or other psychotic disorders)
- Recent substance abuse/dependence disorder (\< 1 year)
- Non-Veteran status
Where
- Sacramento, California
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Apr 24, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations