Helping determine a loved one’s ability to continue driving after a head injury, stroke, or as one ages can be important for their and other’s safety.
Paul Oliver Memorial Hospital Rehabilitation Services offers a test called the Rockwood Driving Battery that helps ensure the participant has the needed neuropsychological skills to drive. The clinic-based test often can aid a physician’s understanding of their patient’s driving abilities. It also provides families with an objective measure, which can make these conversations and decisions easier.
“Driving requires several cognitive or awareness skills as well as movement or motor skills,” said Annette Hart, OTR, a certified occupational therapist at the hospital. “Anytime the brain function is affected through injury or disease, neuropsychological systems crucial for maneuvering a vehicle in spaces and traffic may be impacted.”
The hour-long test which involves reasoning and movement skills helps highlight any significant issues and produces an overall score that suggests a person’s ability to pass or fail an on-road test.
For more information on the test or to schedule an appointment, call 231-352-2231.
More information on services at Paul Oliver Memorial Hospital can be found at munsonhealthcare.org/pomh.