One of the possibilities along the Parkinson’s journey is losing the ability to drive safely. This possibility is a scary one. For many, driving equals independence. So, it means more than just the hassle of getting around. It means losing your independence. It can lead to depression and anxiety. However, it is important to be safe on the road while driving a multi-ton vehicle. We must protect ourselves, our family, and others on the road. So, we are talking today with an Occupational Therapist about when, why, how of driving while diagnosed with Parkinson’s. OT’s are the professionals who see patients about activities of daily living and are trained to test people on their driving skills. We discuss the testing process and the legal implications. Listen in. Some helpful links are below.
https://adaptivemobility.com/ot-driver-rehabilitation-specialist-directory/
https://impirica.tech/driveable/
https://driveablesolutions.com/
https://drivingtoindependence.com/
Thank you to my sponsor, Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about Parkinson’s treatment options, please visit DBSandMe.com.
This is an important topic and a frightening one as it affects not only the PWP, but also anyone who drives with them and anyone on the road when they are!
As a PWP who no longer drives (my husband asked me to stop about 5 years ago because of dysphasia (my eyes were staying shut when I blinked and I could only pry them open with my fingers) I can attest to how difficult it is not to be able to go where you want when you want. I finally admitted to my self that I should not be driving and that admission was extremely difficult. I don’t think of myself as a queen (as the speaker suggested) but rather as a burden. I needed to get past that and I finally did. I still hate the fact that I can’t drive, but at least I accept it now.