DRIVING & DISABILITIES
Return to Driving
Can you drive after a stroke?
Yes, many people are able to return to driving after a stroke. Frequently, safe driving will 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.). In some cases, modifications to make the vehicle wheelchair accessible may also be required.
To determine if you are a candidate for driving, a driver rehabilitation specialist can provide a comprehensive evaluation. The assessment should include a review of your medical history and medication, functional ability, vision, perception, 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 acheive independent, safe driving.
Adaptive Driving Equipment
Possible Mobility Solutions for a Driving After a Stroke
Oftentimes, driving after a stroke requires vehicle modifications and adaptive equipment. While every driver is unique, the equipment listed below is frequently used by stroke survivors who return to driving. 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.
Left Foot AcceleratorA left foot accelerator allows the driver to accelerate and brake with their left foot while keeping their right foot stationary.
Secondary Control ModificationsSome drivers may require secondary control modifcations to more easily access functions such as the turn signals or windshield wipers.
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.
Resources
Additional Resources for Driving After a Stroke
The organizations listed below can provide more resources and information on learning to drive with adaptive equipment after a stroke. If you’re ready to begin your driver rehabilitation journey, contact The Creative Mobility Group to help you get started!
American Stroke Association (ASA)
The American Stroke Association (ASA) is a division of the American Heart Association (AHA) that is focused specifically on stroke prevention, treatment, and recovery. It is a non-profit organization dedicated to reducing disability and death from stroke through research, education, advocacy, and community service.
The ASA was founded in 1997 and has since become a leading organization in the fight against stroke. Its mission is to build healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke, and its goals include increasing public awareness of stroke, improving patient care and outcomes, and supporting research into the causes and treatments of stroke.
The ASA provides a range of resources and programs for stroke survivors, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and the general public. These include educational materials, support groups, advocacy initiatives, fundraising events, and more. The organization also collaborates with other groups and institutions to advance stroke research and improve patient care.
Association of Driver Rehabilitation Specialists (ADED)
ADED — The Association for Driver Rehabilitation Specialists is a professional organization that represents individuals who specialize in working with individuals with disabilities to evaluate their driving skills and provide rehabilitation services. The mission of the ADED is to promote safe and efficient mobility for individuals with disabilities through education, advocacy, and the advancement of the driver rehabilitation specialist profession.
The organization provides its members with a variety of resources and opportunities, including educational events and workshops, a professional certification program, a peer-reviewed journal, and access to a network of professionals who are knowledgeable in the field of driver rehabilitation. ADED also works with government agencies and other organizations to advance policies and programs that support the needs of individuals with disabilities who require driver rehabilitation services.
National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (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.