Lived experience of driving ability following stroke

Abstract

Purpose. This study describes and expands our understanding of the lived-experience of driving ability after stroke in the context of being under a driving evaluation.

Method. Four men with stroke were interviewed on three occasions. The interviews were open-ended, taped and transcribed verbatim, and analysed using Karlsson's Empirical, Phenomenological and Psychological method.

Findings. The findings revealed five main characteristics expressed in the participants' lived experiences: (1) the meaning of driving remained throughout life; (2) being questioned and advised not to drive–an untenable situation; (3) being out of control and violated by the driving evaluation; (4) driving safely (as usual) during the on-road test; and (5) perceiving consequences in everyday living.

Conclusion. The findings indicate that driving is important and taken for granted even after stroke. To lose the ability to drive was unexpected and aroused strong feelings and reactions. The present study contributes to a deeper understanding of how people with stroke experience their driving ability and the evaluation process, which can be integrated in clinical procedures to help improve information, emotional support and clinical procedures.

Keywords:

• Phenomenology
• automobile driving
• awareness
• occupational therapy