ABSTRACT
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.