Seniors' and physicians' attitudes toward using driving simulators in clinical settings

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Occupational Therapy
• Human Factors Engineering

Background:

• Interactive driving simulators offer a safe, controlled environment for occupational therapy interventions.
• Current use of driving simulators is primarily confined to research settings.
• Understanding user needs is crucial for effective simulator application in clinical practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the attitudes of potential clients and physicians towards using driving simulators.
• To identify client and physician needs related to driving and community mobility for simulator application.
• To explore general attitudes towards driving within medical practice.

Main Methods:

• Survey and interview methodologies were employed.
• Data collection focused on clients' and physicians' perspectives.
• Needs assessment was conducted in the context of driving simulator technology.

Main Results:

• Attitudes towards driving simulator use were generally positive among participants.
• A strong desire exists for improved methods to understand and treat clients' driving capabilities.
• Needs and attitudes regarding driving in a medical context were identified.

Conclusions:

• Driving simulators hold significant potential for occupational therapy practice.
• Further development and integration of simulators can address unmet needs in driving rehabilitation.
• Positive user attitudes support the broader adoption of simulator technology in healthcare settings.