A verbal cuing device for persons with brain injury: development and proof-of-concept case study

The ability to successfully return to driving following neurologic injury is one of the most critical factors in re-establishing independence and the most notable safety concern of health providers and family members. This assistive technology study describes the development of a verbal cuing device called the Electronic Driving Coach used as an adjunct to driver training following brain injury. We review literature on rates of return to driving following brain injury and factors associated with predicting return to driving and driving ability. We then address critical factors to return to driving addressed by this emerging technology and describe how the verbal cuing device called the Electronic Driving Coach was designed. We provide a proof-of-concept case study that evaluates use of the verbal cuing device with a person who has experienced a traumatic brain injury. Last, we discuss practical considerations for developing and using assistive driving devices in persons with cognitive impairments, including drivers who have experienced a stroke.