Driving assessment
Role of the Occupational Therapist
The occupational therapist can assess cognitive abilities and evaluate driving skills. The assessment of driving ability aims to analyze the physical and psychological aspects of a person through various tests. These tests help determine whether the individual’s condition allows them to drive a vehicle safely.
Evaluation and Services:
Evaluation and Services:
1. Pre-road Evaluation in a Clinical Setting (Duration: 2.5 hours)
This evaluation aims to assess your physical and cognitive abilities. No specific preparation is required for this evaluation.
Documents to bring to your first appointment:
- Medical reports (from your doctor, optometrist, neurologist, etc.)
- An up-to-date list of your medications
- Driver's license
- Glasses for near or distant vision, if applicable
- Letter from the SAAQ
- Snack or bottle of water (optional)
2. On-road Driving Ability Evaluation (Duration: approximately 1.5 hours)
This evaluation consists of a driving test in a driving school vehicle, equipped with a safety brake. A driving instructor and an occupational therapist will be present throughout the test.
Conditions:
You must have a valid driver's license in your possession to complete this evaluation.
- Evaluation of cognitive abilities
- Theoretical driving ability assessment
- On-road driving ability assessment
Service available after receiving a letter from the SAAQ recommending a re-examination of driving ability.
Automobile Driving Rehabilitation:
Automobile driving rehabilitation in occupational therapy aims to assess and restore the necessary abilities to drive safely after an injury or medical condition. This includes assessments of physical, cognitive, and perceptual skills.
Concrete Example:
Marc, 45 years old, suffered a stroke that affected his coordination and perception. He received a letter from the SAAQ stating that he needed to undergo a functional assessment, including an on-road test with a member of the Ordre des ergothérapeutes du Québec. During his evaluation, an occupational therapist examines his strength, reaction time, and ability to make quick decisions. Based on the results, adaptive strategies or recommendations for vehicle modifications may be proposed so that he can resume driving safely.
Areas of expertise:
"We offer a personalized approach to help individuals achieve their health goals in prevention, rehabilitation, and performance."
