Driving in his golden years: Part III

Jim and Betty, Coeur d'Alene residents of more than 40 years, made an appointment to see an Occupational Therapist to make sure that it was still safe for Jim to drive. Betty was concerned because Jim hit the mailbox when pulling into the driveway. Sharon, a caregiver from Home Helpers, was with them on the day of the appointment; so she drove the couple to the McGrane Center at Kootenai Medical Center.

When they arrived, Jim was given a questionnaire to fill out regarding his information. At the same time, Betty was given a questionnaire regarding Jim's driving and any concerns that she might have. Sharon stayed by their side to assist with anything they needed. Once they completed their answers, Jim met with the therapist to run some tests, while Betty and Sharon waited in the lobby.

Jim was surprised with all the equipment that was used for the screening. He was given a Vision/Visual Perception Evaluation, where he identified objects in a photograph and words in a sentence. He then took a Cognitive Evaluation which consisted of answering simple questions about driving. Part of this section included long-term and short-term memory testing. The most entertaining part was when he was tested on reaction time. He was given a gas pedal and brake pedal to push with his foot. When the green light was on, he'd push the gas. When the red light was on, he'd push the brake. The therapist told him he was doing great. After he finished the indoor screening, it was time for the practical exam; which meant that he would take the therapist for a drive in his car.

... To be continued Wednesday, Dec. 21

For questions about home care, contact Home Helpers at (208) 769-9560 or go to www.CoeurdAleneHomeCare.com.

For questions concerning driving evaluations, contact ReNae Scott, MS, OTR/L at (208) 666-2378 or email at [email protected].