Experts talked about the impact of driving on health and brain function

Driving a car is not only freedom, but also a way to train the brain to improve cognitive functions. On August 2, experts from SBERBANK and the Scandinavian Health Center shared with Izvestia recommendations on how to use time behind the wheel to train attention and memory, which is especially important with age.

"Several areas of the brain are active while driving: the visual cortex, prefrontal cortex, parietal areas, motor cortex, cerebellum, and hippocampus, a structure associated with memory and spatial orientation. These areas are responsible for vision, attention, movement, planning, coordination, and navigation. With regular practice, they remain active and form stable bonds for many years to come," said Tatiana Hrebtova, a neurologist at the Scandinavian Health Center.

However, driving can cause cognitive overload, especially in people with increased anxiety. According to the expert, in order to reduce the load, modern technologies such as adaptive cruise control and driver fatigue monitoring systems can greatly facilitate the process.

Projection displays and voice assistants also help reduce distractions and increase safety on the road, allowing the driver to focus on driving.

Dmitry Gurov, pharmacist and head of the SBER EAPTEK pharmacy, noted that maintaining brain health with the help of nutrients and minerals plays an important role in the prevention of cognitive overload, especially while driving. B vitamins such as B6 and B9 help fight fatigue by maintaining stable energy levels and promoting the production of neurotransmitters, which is important for concentration and calmness during long trips.

"Omega-3 fatty acids are also useful, which are the building blocks for brain cells and the nervous system. They improve cognitive functions such as reaction speed, memory, and decision—making ability," the expert emphasized.

In addition, driving can be useful in rehabilitation after a stroke or traumatic brain injury. This process involves coordination, visual perception, and cognitive flexibility, which can suffer after injury. However, it is important to approach driving with caution, and in some cases, the use of therapeutic driving programs and simulators is recommended to restore skills safely.

The clinic is important: taking medications will not be grounds for revocation of rights

The State Duma approved amendments on responsibility for driving after using medicines

Car lawyer Lev Voropaev said on May 29 that after taking medications such as corvalol and valocordin, you should not drive. According to government decree No. 681, drivers are prohibited from using these medicines, otherwise a motorist risks losing his license for a period of one and a half to two years and receiving a fine of 45 thousand rubles.

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