Introduction

Beyond relevant cognitive tests, a simulated driving activity could be useful to observe performance and behaviour in a standardized ‘driving-like’ situation and provide information on attention, reaction time and information processing speed when evaluating the ability to continue driving after a brain injury or disease. The aim was to develop and evaluate concurrent validity and internal consistency of a computerized simulated driving task tool.

Methods

Results from a new tool (CyberSiM, including three subtests and four result variables) were compared with results from the Trail Making Test, Useful Field of View test and Nordic Stroke Driver Screening Assessment. There were 126 healthy adults included in the study.

Results

The correlation analysis showed significant correlations (p<0.001) for CyberSiM reaction time and all cognitive tests except for Useful Field of View 1. The CyberSiM showed good internal consistency, with Cronbach’s alpha=0.85.

Conclusion

The analysis of concurrent validity showed conformity to most cognitive tests. CyberSiM might be a useful complement to cognitive testing with the opportunity to observe some behaviours ‘in a driving-like activity’. Further studies on clinical groups are needed to confirm its usefulness.