A Scoping Review of Environmental Factors That Impact Driving with Arthritis: Considerations for Occupational Therapy

Abstract

Using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health, this scoping review mapped environmental barriers and facilitators that can influence driving with arthritis. A search of research databases located 2445 studies from which 19 were included. The predominant diagnosis researched was rheumatoid arthritis. The most common facilitators were vehicle adaptations (e.g., supplemental mirrors, seat cushions). Barriers included a lack of knowledge among clinicians to address behind-the-wheel concerns and nonuse/abandonment of such adaptions. Results highlight key clinical and research opportunities to support drivers with arthritis.

Keywords:

• Arthritis
• driving
• driving rehabilitation
• older adults
• scoping review

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Michael Cammarata

Mr. Michael Cammarata, O.T. Reg. (Ont.), OTR, is an Assistant Professor in the Occupational Therapy program at D’Youville College in Buffalo, New York, United States. He is a registered occupational therapist in outpatient stroke and neurological rehabilitation and pursuing his doctoral studies in Rehabilitation Science at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

Ruheena Sangrar

Ms. Ruheena Sangrar, O.T. Reg. (Ont.), is a registered occupational therapist with experience in driving assessment, inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation pursuing her doctoral studies in Rehabilitation Science at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

Jocelyn E. Harris

Dr. Jocelyn Harris, PhD, O.T. Reg. (Ont.) is an Associate Professor in the Occupational Therapy program at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada with experience in stroke rehabilitation

Julie Richardson

Dr. Julie Richardson, PhD, PT is a Professor and Assistant Dean in the School of Rehabilitation Graduate Program at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada with extensive experience conducting randomized controlled trials in exercise-based rehabilitation for older adults and persons with chronic disability.

Brenda Vrkljan

Dr. Brenda Vrkljan, PhD, O.T. Reg. (Ont.) is a Professor in the Occupational Therapy program in the School of Rehabilitation Science at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada where her expertise focuses on medically at-risk drivers.