Research Article  |   January 2016
Driving Rehabilitation Specialists’ Perspectives on Older Driver Evaluations
Jacqueline Jones; Anne Dickerson; Hanna K. Flaten; Saddyna Belmashkan; Marian E. Betz
Author Affiliations
  • Jacqueline Jones, PhD, RN, FRCNA, is Associate Professor, College of Nursing, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora
  • Anne Dickerson, PhD, OTR/L, SCDCM, FAOTA, is Professor, Department of Occupational Therapy, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina
  • Hanna K. Flaten is Medical Student and Professional Research Assistant, Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora
  • Saddyna Belmashkan is Professional Research Assistant, Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora
  • Marian E. Betz, MD, MPH, is Associate Professor, Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora; marian.betz@ucdenver.edu
Article Information
Community Mobility and Driving / Geriatrics/Productive Aging / Professional Issues / Productive Aging
Research Article   |   January 2016
Driving Rehabilitation Specialists’ Perspectives on Older Driver Evaluations
American Journal of Occupational Therapy, January 2016, Vol. 70, 7002270010p1-7002270010p7. doi:10.5014/ajot.2016.016915
American Journal of Occupational Therapy, January 2016, Vol. 70, 7002270010p1-7002270010p7. doi:10.5014/ajot.2016.016915
Abstract

OBJECTIVE. We explored driving rehabilitation specialists’ (DRSs’) perspectives on older driver evaluations.

METHOD. We conducted interviews with 26 DRSs across the United States who evaluate older drivers. Transcript analysis followed general inductive techniques to identify themes related to current systems and barriers to use.

RESULTS. Themes, by Social–Ecological Model level, were as follows: (1) individual occupational therapists’ commitment to mobility and safety, perceived responsibilities, and experience; (2) DRSs’ relationships with drivers, medical providers, and licensing bureaus; (3) the community surrounding the DRSs, including the health care system and transportation resources; and (4) societal factors, including DRS reimbursement, reporting requirements and liability coverage, and role of national organizations.

CONCLUSIONS. This qualitative study identified barriers to the development of an effective system for older driver evaluations. Future work should verify, refine, and expand these findings by targeting other stakeholder groups.