Insights From Older People With Dementia and Mild Cognitive Impairment on the Management of Driving Cessation by Health Professionals: A Qualitative Study
Claire Spargo, Kate Laver, Zoe Adey‐Wakeling, Angela Berndt, Stacey GeorgeABSTRACT
Objectives
To obtain insights into the needs and experiences of older people with dementia or mild cognitive impairment (MCI) regarding health professionals' management of driving cessation.
Methods
A qualitative descriptive approach within an interpretive paradigm was used to study people in their own context. Semi‐structured interviews with 12 people aged 65 years or older with dementia/MCI were conducted, recruited from a memory clinic at a South Australian tertiary hospital. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.
Results
Themes identified driving cessation as a process involving four potential phases: (1) Preparation: Value of early and ongoing discussions about driving cessation, (2) Navigating fitness to drive decisions: Desire for information, options and guidance, (3) Receiving a driving cessation recommendation: Importance of clear and compassionate communication, and (4) Adjusting to life without driving: Feelings of loss of independence and loneliness. Participants identified specific communication needs from health professionals across the first three phases. In the fourth, post‐cessation phase, all who had ceased driving received emotional and/or practical support from family; however, none reported receiving support from health professionals.
Conclusions
Findings highlighted the need for a structured and comprehensive communication approach over phases, from preparation to driving cessation, and increased post‐cessation support for people with dementia/MCI and their families.