DRS 201

Behind the Wheel with Autism

As autism diagnoses become increasingly prevalent, some parents are opting for specialized training at driver rehabilitation programs for their new drivers. Teens with high functioning autism present with many strengths and weaknesses when pursuing their driver’s license. Various tools for screening new drivers with autism to determine their driving readiness will be presented. Building on the clinical presentation, this seminar will explore key features of treatment plans designed specifically for new drivers with autism, and essential strategies to use when conducting driver training with teens with autism.

Apply Cognitive Assessments to Improve Driving Rehabilitation Interventions & Outcomes

The availability and application of standardized, evidenced-based cognitive assessments are essential for the occupational therapy practitioner and driver rehabilitation specialist. The Brief Cognitive Assessment Tool (BCAT) Approach is a unique applied-concept for assessing and working with people who have memory and other cognitive impairments. The BCAT test system is made up of six assessments, three treatment interventions, and family/caregiver resources. This session will share data re: the use of standardized assessments of cognition related to driving to demonstrate how the scores can be used to predict changes with driving skills and facilitate appropriate referrals between OT practitioners and driver rehabilitation specialists. By utilizing an evidenced-based cognitive assessment, the OT can identify whether a client demonstrates clinical signs of age-related cognitive decline, mild cognitive Impairment (MCI), or whether dementia is present. Course attendees will gain valuable information on assessment resources to help differentiate cognitive deficits, and considerations for application of assessments outcomes to assist with referrals for driving rehabilitation. In addition, participants will learn to apply cognitive assessments to predict safety in IADL performance, specifically driving, and provide clinical services to the client to obtain the most efficacious and positive clinical outcomes.

Building Your Toolkit for Working for Drivers with Dementia and MCI Part A

Part A of a two-part presentation:
According to the World Health Organization, the worldwide incidence rates of dementia have increased 30% since 2010. The individual with dementia often presents initially with short term memory issues, but the disease inevitably marches forward to affect many skills necessary for driving. As driver rehab professionals, we are seeing this increase in cognitively impaired seniors in our practice. This two-hour seminar will explore the different types of cognitive impairment seen in seniors and will bolster your tool box in assessing clients with dementia, both in clinic and on-road. By piecing together the medical and driving history, results from evidence based clinical assessment tools and observations on-road, attendees will learn to synthesize a clinical impression and formulate recommendations for the aging driver. This seminar seeks to incorporate invited conversation and discussion to problem solve through clinician’s various own client challenges.

When it is Time to Put on the Brakes? Putting Dementia Driving Theory Into Practice Part B

Part B of a two-part presentation:
This 2-hour session will explore several senior driver case studies using the structured approach presented in Part A, including evidence-based tools and on-road observations to evaluate real world aging drivers. In some cases, clients may present with only mild impairment, and ongoing monitoring is required to determine safety as their condition progresses. The presenters will use case studies and group discussion to explore strategies for driver training with cognitively impaired seniors, as well as increasing awareness regarding the warning signs that ultimately lead to driving cessation. Through the use of case scenarios, we will walk through the steps of assisting our clients through the transition to non-driver, including giving bad news, problem solving and communicating with families, and exploring transportation alternatives.

Driving With Low Vision

Driver Rehabilitation and Vehicle Modification Process in Public VR in Massachusetts (and other New England States)

Panel discussion on the process and practices employed by the vocational rehabilitation agencies in Massachusetts and in other New England States. To discuss the role of NMEDA (including QAP), ADED in supporting state vocational rehabilitation programs. To discuss the needs and differences specific to vocational rehabilitation consumers. To discuss increased Federal oversight of VR programs and, specifically, of the assistive technology programs including driver rehabilitation and vehicle modification programs.

Patient First. The Right Fit.

This course will primarily be a case study open forum discussion on vehicle final fittings and the selection of the correct adaptive equipment. This training will also focus on secondary controls to improve the ease of vehicle operation.

To Train or Not to Train - Are Behind-the-Wheel Problems of Certain Drivers Remediable

When certain medical conditions interfere with performing activities of daily living such as driving, the safety of the driver and others sharing the road should always be the top consideration. For those drivers who may suffer from mental health conditions such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Bipolar Disorder or Asperger’s or varied medical conditions associated with aging, either symptoms of the conditions or medications used to manage those symptoms may lead to behind the wheel presentations that pose a safety risk and may need to be remediated. Are behind the wheel problems of certain drivers remediable? For the driver rehabilitation professional, the decision to train or not to train can be challenging. This session will explore the strengths and weaknesses seen in drivers with varied medical conditions, identify common behind-the -wheel problems, review the steps to arrive at a decision to train or not to train and discuss strategies on how to overcome barriers or challenges that may present. Case studies and invited discussion will be used to achieve learning objectives. Additionally, brainstorming for guidelines to assist in the decision- making process of to train or not to train these drivers will be explored.