Occupational therapy and older drivers: research, education, and practice

Occupational therapists facilitate independence and support participation in occupations that are personally meaningful to clients to enhance well-being and quality of life. Among the occupations addressed by occupational therapists is the instrumental activity of daily living (IADL) of driving. Occupational therapists are particularly concerned with older adult engagement in driving because of the vital contributions driving and community mobility make to engagement in other activities and subsequently quality of life. This article includes the current status of occupational therapy research, education, and practice and presents the role of the occupational therapist as a member of the team with regard to older drivers.