Knowledge Check

I listened to the "OT's Role in Promoting Driving Independence" podcast. This was a very interesting podcast with a dialogue of two OTs and a certified driving rehabilitation specialist. They discussed many topics in regards to her role as a certified driving rehabilitation specialist. They first discussed about how the older population accounts for 8% of car crash related activity and 14% of driving fatalities. This numbers are astonishing to me because I feel that these numbers are preventable and should be lower. Another interesting fact that was mentioned was most individuals that have suffered from a TBI stop driving simply because their friends and family say they should stop driving. Many individuals could have a better quality of life if they received therapy or evaluations and were able to drive on their own. They have halted their driving because of the comfort level of another person. 

    During the second portion of the podcast the OTs interviewed a certified driving rehab specialist. She gave insight into her position and how she is the only driving rehabilitation specialist in the state of Nevada. She stated there is no referral necessary from a physician and that some insurances will cover her services. With her position, she assesses the individuals home, their car, their cognitive, physical, emotional, and proprioceptive skills. Sometimes the individual will be very confident in their driving and then after the assessment she will have to inform them they should not be driving. Also, some individuals should be driving when they are not confident or comfortable with that fact. I feel that driving is such a vital part of someone's social and environmental freedom. It makes me reminisce of turning 16 years old and being able to drive by yourself for the first time. It allows for "freedom" and taking that ability away forces you to rely on another individual or system to transport you places. I think one piece I took away from the podcast and the driving rehabilitation specialist was to accept the client where they are. We must accept the client in their living situation, family situation, or mental state. Whenever we do this, we will be able to put forth the best effort to help them regain their independence and help them live the best life possible.