I’m concerned about my parent’s driving, what can I do to help keep them safe?
It’s a really tricky and stressful time when you find yourself in this scenario. Please feel free to call Megan on 0474428888 to discuss your concerns and together we can develop a plan.
My relative has received a letter from VicRoads saying they need an occupational therapy driving assessment, what do we need to do?
The best idea is to contact Megan on 0474428888 to discuss the situation and to book an appointment as soon as possible. The sooner an appointment is booked, the sooner everyone can relax and feel calm.
What does an occupational therapy driving assessment involve?
An occupational therapy driving assessment involves two parts – an ‘off-road’ assessment and an ‘on-road’ assessment. It is preferable for these parts to occur over two appointments, but in special circumstances can be arranged together.
The off-road assessment can take place from home or at one of our offices. It involves a thorough assessment of driving history and future needs, testing of physical and cognitive ability related to driving and careful planning for the on-road assessment.
The on-road assessment involves driving the carefully designed route agreed upon at the off-road assessment. This assessment takes place in a dual control car with a driving instructor in the passenger seat and occupational therapist in the back passenger seat.
What happens after an occupational therapy driving assessment?
Results will be discussed at the end of the on-road driving assessment. Generally there are three results:
- The medical condition does not impact on driving ability = maintain licence (with annual medical and occupational therapy driving assessment for some conditions)
- The medical condition does impact on driving ability but changes can be made to improve safety, skill and ability = maintain licence with conditions (might include rehabilitation, changes to the vehicle or changes to where/when driving occurs, annual occupational therapy driving assessments)
- The medical condition does impact on driving ability but changes cannot be made to improve safety, skill and ability = consider other transport options to maintain independence and safety
These results will also be reported to VicRoads and GP/specialist.
How much does an occupational therapy driving assessment cost?
We have a schedule of fees for occupational therapy driving assessments. Fees are inclusive of off-road, on-road, driving instructor/dual control car and report and can be paid in two instalments. Fees can be paid via cash, credit card or direct bank deposit.
Please call Megan to discuss your needs. We are pleased to offer pensioner discounts and return customer discounts.