Driving Assessment Programs at Parkwood lnstitute - What To Expect

DriveABLE

DriveABLE is a medical driving assessment program for older drivers with a confirmed or suspected cognitive impairment such as dementia. It has two components: a Cognitive Assessment and a Road Evaluation. The DriveABLE assessment takes about two hours and is completed by an Occupational Therapist.

During the appointment medical history, vision, and physical abilities such as range of motion, strength, and mobility are reviewed. The cognitive assessment uses a computer-based program which evaluates memory, judgment, decision making, attention and motor abilities.

The Road Evaluation consists of a standardized on-road test conducted by a qualified driving examiner and an Occupational Therapist. Testing procedures identify driving errors associated with declining competence to drive. No penalties are given for errors characteristic of normal, healthy drivers.

Learn more at DriveABLE

DARP

What's involved in a Driving Assessment?

Clinical assessment includes:

  • conducted by an occupational therapist
  • approximately two hours
  • includes: medical history, driving history and driving goals, physical assessment, perceptual assessment, computer based cognitive behavioural assessment, physical assessment, visual/perceptual assessment, and cognitive assessment.

On-road assessment includes:

  • conducted by an occupational therapist and a certified driving instructor
  • approximately one hour
  • the predetermined route includes residential areas, commercial areas and the expressway.
  • an assessment vehicle is used, equipped with a dual braking system.
  • a one-day temporary permit is arranged through the MTO, if the client's license is under medical suspension.

Recommendation session includes:

  • recommendations are given to the client immediately following the assessment
  • documentation is forwarded to the referral source, the client and the Ministry of Transportation (where applicable)
  • the assessment will include determining whether adaptive equipment and/or vehicle modifications are required to assure driving accessibility and safety
  • an evaluation for equipment can be completed when a client has unique needs as a passenger

Vocational Assessments

  • We have recently linked with Ontario Truck Driving School and are able to provide assessments for individuals who are employed as truck or bus drivers.

Driver Rehabilitation Services

  • One-on-one driving lessons for new drivers with physical and/or learning disabilities.  In partnership with an Approved Functional Assessment Centre for Beginner Driver Education, this can be done as a part of the new driver certificate program.
  • In-car remedial driving lessons
  • Clinical remediation to improve skills in attention, perception, stress management, etc.

Our vehicles

2 cars parked at Parkwood Institute

The following vehicles are used for assessment and training.

Mid-size sedans equipped with: 

  • dual brake
  • left and right hand controls
  • various steering devices that can be mounted in different locations on the steering wheel
  • left foot gas pedal and pedal extensions
  • signal light extension
  • parking brake extension