otdriverassessment@bigpond.com
Driver rehabilitation & learning to drive with a DIsabIlitY
Specialised Driving Instruction
Following a driving assessment, your OT may recommend a series of lessons to work on some driving skills that were of concern.
This may be as a result of:
- poor driving habits or practices that have been established over years of driving
- a recent change in your function as a result of a medical condition or diagnosis
- a condition you have been managing your whole life
Specialised driving instructors are used to complete OT driving assessment and rehabilitation for the following reasons:
- they can provide trial and practice with a variety of vehicle controls that may have been recommended for you due to physical challenges
- they are familiar with the OT driving assessment process and can best help you to work on areas of concern
- they have additional understanding of the many health conditions that can affect driving, and can work with you to overcome the associated challenges you may face with learning to drive or retaining your drivers licence
Your OT will help you to find the right instructor to work with you.
Following lessons you will be required to undertake a review OT driving assessment. You will need to demonstrate that you have satisfactorily addressed the areas of concern, and can drive in a safe, legal and independent manner.
Click here to find a list of driving instructors who may be of assistance
Off Road learning assistance
Working with a Therapy Assistant
Your occupational therapist may recommend that you work with a therapy assistant while you are working towards your driving goal.
A therapy assistant can work with you to:
- Work with you to help obtain your learner permit
- Work with you after completing your PTD assessment at the same time you are learning on the road with an instructor.
The aim of the therapy assistant work is to complement and add to your driving experience, confidence and reinforce knowledge while you are undertaking lessons or driving with an open licence holder.
Your OT will discuss this option with you at the time of your assessment if deemed appropriate.
