DRIVING & DISABILITIES
Maintaining Mobility Independence
Can you drive with multiple sclerosis?
Yes, many people with multiple sclerosis are able to continue driving. In some cases, safe driving may require the addition of adaptive devices to assist in operating the vehicle’s primary driving controls (gas, brake, and steering) as well as the vehicle’s secondary driving controls (turn signals, windshield wipers, horn, etc.).
To determine if you are a candidate for driving, a driver rehabilitation specialist can provide a comprehensive evaluation. The assessment should include vision, visual perception, functional ability, reaction time, and a behind-the-wheel evaluation. After this assessment, the driver rehabilitation specialist will help you identify what special equipment or accomodations are needed to aid in safely maintaining your mobility independence for as long as possible.
Adaptive Driving Equipment
Possible Mobility Solutions for a Driver with Multiple Sclerosis
Because MS affects individuals in varying ways, some drivers may require vehicle modifications or adaptive equipment while other drivers may not. The equipment listed below is frequently used by drivers with multiple sclerosis who do require special equipment and accomodations. In addition to these items, there are more products available to help create a safe and comfortable driving experience that is customized for you.
To help you determine what solution best fits your needs, your driver rehabilitation specialist will likely have different variations of demo equipment for you to try. If a particular product is not available for you to demo, please contact a Creative Mobility Group showroom so we can facilitate a demonstration for you with your driver rehabilitation specialist.
Steering DeviceCommonly used with hand controls, a steering device attaches to a vehicle’s steering wheel to provide easier and more comfortable steering.
Reduced Effort SteeringIn addition to a steering device, a reduced effort steering modification may be needed.
Transfer AidA transfer aid, such as BraunAbility® Turny® Evo, can assist with entering and exiting the vehicle independently.
Scooter Stowage LiftIf the driver utilizes a mobility aid, such as scooter, a stowage lift can assist with transporting it.
Wheelchair Accessible VanIf the driver uses a power wheelchair, a wheelchair accessible van may be needed.
Additional Considerations
Physical Changes from MS that May Affect One’s Ability to Drive
For individuals with MS, the following physical changes may affect one’s ability to drive. These should be discussed with your physician and driver rehabilitation specialist to help determine what accommodations are required to provide a safe driving plan.
Visual Changes
Visual changes from MS may be severe enough that driving is precluded or night driving is prohibited. If double vision is intermittent and can be monitored independently, then driving time may be limited to avoid driving during an exacerbation. Sunglasses may help with glare sensitivity; however, night driving not recommended with sunglasses. Additional mirrors can be utilized to compensate for loss of peripheral vision. Drivers can learn the order of traffic signals to aid with color vision impairment.
Cognitive Issues
Drivers with MS need to be able to regulate emotions and should avoid driving when upset, angry, or overly emotional. If an individual displays adequate judgement required to drive but some loss of memory or problem solving exists, driving may be limited to familiar routes.
Decreased Energy
For drivers with MS, energy conservation is vital. To save energy for driving, a driver may require equipment to assist with transfering in and out of the vehicle. If the driver uses a mobility aid, such a scooter or power wheelchair, a stowage lift can assist with loading it into the vehicle.
Medications
Drivers with MS should seek their physician’s input regarding side effects which may impair driving. Additionally, drivers should not operate a vehicle when sleepy or just before or after taking medication.
Resources
Additional Resources for Driving and Multiple Sclerosis
The organizations listed below can provide more resources and information on learning to drive with adaptive equipment for individuals with multiple sclerosis. If you’re ready to begin your driver rehabilitation journey, contact The Creative Mobility Group to help you get started!
NMEDA
NMEDA stands for the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association. It is a non-profit trade association that represents businesses in the United States and Canada that sell and service wheelchair accessible vehicles and adaptive mobility equipment.
The mission of NMEDA is to promote safe and reliable wheelchair accessible vehicles and adaptive equipment for people with disabilities. They work to ensure that individuals with disabilities have access to the best mobility solutions and to support their independence and quality of life.
NMEDA members include mobility dealers, manufacturers, and rehabilitation professionals who work together to provide customized solutions for individuals with disabilities. They provide education, training, and certification programs to ensure that their members have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide quality products and services to their customers.
Additionally, NMEDA engages in advocacy efforts to promote policies and regulations that support the needs of individuals with disabilities. They work to improve access to transportation and to ensure that individuals with disabilities have equal opportunities to participate in all aspects of society.
AOTA
AOTA stands for the American Occupational Therapy Association. It is a national professional organization that represents occupational therapists, occupational therapy assistants, and occupational therapy students in the United States. The association works to promote the profession, advocate for occupational therapy services, and support the professional development of its members.
Some of the AOTA's key initiatives include promoting evidence-based practice, advocating for occupational therapy services in health care policy and reimbursement, providing continuing education opportunities for members, and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the profession. The AOTA also publishes research and resources related to occupational therapy practice and education, as well as standards for ethical and competent practice.
National Multiple Sclerosis Society
The National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of people affected by multiple sclerosis (MS). The mission of the NMSS is to provide education, advocacy, and support to individuals with MS and their families, as well as to fund research aimed at finding a cure for the disease.
The NMSS offers a variety of programs and services to support those living with MS, including information and referral services, educational programs, peer support groups, financial assistance, and advocacy efforts. They also fund research to better understand the disease and develop new treatments and therapies. Additionally, the NMSS advocates for policies that promote access to healthcare and disability rights for people with MS.