Learning About Driver Rehabilitation

Driver rehabilitation is a program that helps people drive safely. It can help people after an injury, illness, or disability. It can also help with changes from getting older.

The goal of the program is to help people stay safe and keep driving on their own.

You may need driver rehabilitation if a health problem, injury, or getting older has made driving less safe.

Common reasons include:

• Strokes.
• Brain injuries.
• Spine injuries.
• Arthritis.
• Eyesight changes.
• Parkinson's disease.
• Multiple sclerosis (MS).

A doctor or family member may suggest the program if they are worried about you being able to drive safely. For example, they may have noticed changes in your driving skills or a slower reaction time.

Driver rehabilitation can help you:

• Drive more safely.
• Return to driving after an injury or illness, and help you stay more independent.
• Feel more confident while driving.
• Understand any problems or safety concerns with driving.
• Get special equipment to make driving easier and safer.
• Make changes to your car to make driving easier and safer.
• Decide if driving is still safe for you.

The program is often led by a certified driver rehabilitation specialist (CDRS). Some programs may also include an occupational therapist with special training.

The program usually has two parts, a clinical evaluation and a driving evaluation.

Clinical evaluation

This focuses on physical abilities needed for safe driving. It might include checking your:

• Eyesight.
• Memory and attention.
• Strength and movement.
• Balance.
• Reaction time.

You may also be asked about your health history, medicines you take, or any driving concerns you have.

Driving evaluation

This is like a driving test. The instructor may check things like how you steer, brake, and change lanes.

After these exams, the instructor may:

• Suggest ways to improve your driving skills.
• Suggest special driving equipment.
• Teach you how to use any special equipment.
• Talk with your family members and doctors about your driving safety.
• Suggest limits on driving.
• Give advice on other ways to get around.

Some programs may also include driving practice or training with special equipment.

The program is different for everyone. Some people may only need a driving evaluation. Others may need more driving practice and training.

How long it is depends on:

• Your health condition.
• Your driving skills.
• Whether you need special equipment.
• Whether you need changes to your car.

You can find programs through your doctor or occupational therapist. You can also find a directory of programs near you on the website of the American Occupational Therapy Association (www.aota.org). Or you can request a directory by emailing AOTA at driverhelp@aota.org.