Aging and Driving
Article submitted by Christy Dittmar MS, OTR, CDRS Center for Neurorehabilitation Services 970-493-6667.
One of the most sensitive topics of the times is driving safety as we age, or driving after experiencing a medical problem such as a stroke. More seniors will be driving in the coming decades as they seek to maintain their independence and avoid isolation. By 2030, with the aging baby boomers, the number of drivers over 65 will double.
There is a need for a greater understanding of the driving assessment options available to drivers, physicians, family members and law enforcement. In addition to Senior Driver Refresher Courses, physicians can make a referral for a driving evaluation with a driving rehabilitation specialist. Occupational therapists are usually the certified driving rehabilitation specialist (CDRS), functioning as the missing link between the physician and the department of motor vehicles. This assessment provides the driver and physician with necessary information for decision making about continuation or modification of driving. This evaluation includes measures of strength, sensation, coordination, muscle tone, vision/perception, reaction time, and cognitive skills. Behind the wheel evaluation completes this process.
Recommendations for declining performance skills may be overcome with compensations such as adaptive equipment (e.g. extra mirrors for drivers who cannot turn their heads to check blind spots). Other compensations might include skill changes such as making left turns only at controlled intersections (i.e. turning left with a dedicated turn lane and left arrow), taking only preplanned routes in simple traffic situations, and restricting driving to daylight hours. In the event that driving restrictions are recommended, the perceived loss of freedom is difficult and the driving specialist can help make this transition easier. People who have compromised memory and/or other cognitive skills really don't have the insight to make the correct decision about driving.
The goal is safety for all while offering dignity and respect to our aging drivers. We will all be there some day!