Brenda H Vrkljan1, Colleen E McGrath, Lori J Letts. 1. Occupational Therapy Program, School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University, IAHS Bldg, Rm. 450,1400 Main St.W., Hamilton, ON, Canada L8S 1C7. vrkljan@mcmaster.ca
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Many office-based assessment tools are used by occupational therapists to predict fitness to drive. PURPOSE: To appraise psychometric properties of such tools, specifically predictive validity for on-road performance. METHODS: A literature search was conducted to identify assessment tools and studies involving on-road outcomes (behind-the-wheel evaluation, crashes, traffic violations). Using a standardized appraisal process, reviewers rated each tool's psychometric properties, including its predictive validity with on-road performance. FINDINGS: Seventeen measures met the inclusion criteria. Evidence suggests many tools do not have cutoff scores linked with on-road outcomes, although some had stronger evidence than others. Implications. When making a determination regarding driver fitness, clinicians should consider the psychometric properties of the tool as well as existing evidence concerning its utility in predicting on-road performance. Caution is warranted in using any one office-based tool to predict driving fitness; rather, a multifactorial-based assessment approach that includes physical, cognitive, and visual-perceptual components, is recommended.
BACKGROUND: Many office-based assessment tools are used by occupational therapists to predict fitness to drive. PURPOSE: To appraise psychometric properties of such tools, specifically predictive validity for on-road performance. METHODS: A literature search was conducted to identify assessment tools and studies involving on-road outcomes (behind-the-wheel evaluation, crashes, traffic violations). Using a standardized appraisal process, reviewers rated each tool's psychometric properties, including its predictive validity with on-road performance. FINDINGS: Seventeen measures met the inclusion criteria. Evidence suggests many tools do not have cutoff scores linked with on-road outcomes, although some had stronger evidence than others. Implications. When making a determination regarding driver fitness, clinicians should consider the psychometric properties of the tool as well as existing evidence concerning its utility in predicting on-road performance. Caution is warranted in using any one office-based tool to predict driving fitness; rather, a multifactorial-based assessment approach that includes physical, cognitive, and visual-perceptual components, is recommended.
Authors: Jennifer L Campos; Michel Bédard; Sherrilene Classen; Jude J Delparte; Deborah A Hebert; Nellemarie Hyde; Geoff Law; Gary Naglie; Stephanie Yung Journal: Front Psychol Date: 2017-08-22
Authors: Madelaine Wernham; Pamela G Jarrett; Connie Stewart; Elizabeth MacDonald; Donna MacNeil; Cynthia Hobbs Journal: Can Geriatr J Date: 2014-06-03