Driving after a stroke – a snapshot study of the acute phase

Background: In Australia stroke survivors are recommended not to drive for one month post stroke (Austroads, 2006). Stroke survivors are then required by law to get a certificate of fitness to drive from their doctor requiring they meet the vision guidelines and to be medically fit to drive. If the doctor has concerns they refer to an Occupational Therapist for a driving assessment or lessons. There is a lack of knowledge of stroke survivors on opportunities and process for returning to driving even some time post stroke. Often the decision not to drive is made independent of medical advice.

Aim: To evaluate attitudes and decision making by patients about driving in acute ward and rehabilitation wards post stroke.

Method: A qualitative study involving a snapshot of patients on 3 days at an acute and rehabilitation hospitals in Adelaide. Participants have cognitive and physical assessments and are then interviewed about current driving status and factors influencing decisions about driving before and after their stroke.

Results: Emerging themes include: driving being equated with independence, gender differences in perceptions, a lack of legal knowledge about regulations.