Driving is one of the most complex activities of daily living, requiring the continuous integration of visual, cognitive, physical and functional abilities. Occupational therapists play a key role in identifying the specific ways in which a client's condition may affect these functions on the road — assessing both physical capacity and cognitive ability to build a clear picture of where the challenges lie before the on-road driving part of the assessment takes place.

Within a Driving Mobility assessment, the OT or other clinician works alongside an Approved Driving Instructor. This pairing is central to how our assessments function. The clinician brings expertise in functional ability — how a condition affects movement, cognition, fatigue, reaction time and vehicle control — while the Approved Driving Instructor contributes practical, on-road evaluation. Together, they build a complete picture that neither could produce alone.

The clinical element of the assessment considers a broad range of factors: vision, attention and information processing, physical strength and coordination, reaction time, fatigue, and how a condition may change over time.

An assessment often identifies that a client can continue to drive with the aid of adaptations. Hand controls, steering aids, seating modifications, and wheelchair accessible vehicles are among the options that can make the difference between a client remaining independent on the road or not. Our team provides clear guidance on what adaptations are appropriate and how they can be trialled and sourced.

Where driving is no longer safe or viable, the assessment supports a conversation about alternative mobility options — helping clients and their families to plan ahead with the right information.

Referrals can come directly from OTs, GPs, the DVLA, Motability or the client themselves.

Find us at stand C44, NEC Birmingham, 25–26 November, to discuss referral routes and how we can support your clients.