A Swedish survey of occupational therapists’ involvement and performance in driving assessments

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the extent to which occupational therapists (OTs) are involved in driving assessments in Sweden and how these assessments are performed. A questionnaire was sent to 154 geriatric, rehabilitation, and neurological clinics, and additionally directly to 19 OTs who had purchased a test battery specifically used for driving assessments. The response rate was 60%. Of those responding, 57% reported being involved in fitness-to-drive assessments. However, such assessments were carried out in various manners and diverse methods were used, ranging from unstandardized activity assessments to a test developed specifically for driving assessments. Only 19% used on-road driving tests as a complement to the clinical assessments. Apart from the lack of appropriate methods, the respondents said that they did not have sufficient knowledge to perform driving assessments and expressed a need for further education. In the future it seems necessary for OTs in Sweden to undergo specialized training and perform the assessments on a regular basis to maintain a high level of competence as driving assessors.

• Cognitive assessment
• driving assessment
• fitness to drive
• occupational therapy
• on-road test

Notes

1. Fitness to drive = the medical and functional requirements for driving

2. Driving assessment = assessment of the complex interaction between physical, cognitive, perceptual, and psychological abilities while driving a vehicle