The role of occupational therapy in post-crash rehabilitation

Posted in Blog

How occupational therapy can enhance recovery and independence after road crashes through rehabilitation.

It can be difficult getting back on track after a road crash, let alone getting back on the road – recovery presents numerous challenges, but here at Krysalis we are dedicated to offering comprehensive support.

We provide immediate aid and ongoing rehabilitation assistance to victims and their families, guiding them through the aftermath of a road crash.

An Occupational Therapist’s road to giving support

For Krysalis Neurological Occupational Therapists it is important that client safety is in the driver’s seat while facing the twists and turns of rehabilitation.

We foster an environment where people can grow and change; where potential is realised, and lives are transformed.

Introducing FTD

Following a brain injury, individuals who have experienced a road crash may face difficulties resuming driving, which is one of the reasons why the involvement of Occupational Therapists is so important.

Nowhere is this highlighted better than in the legislation that passed in 2022 allowing Occupational Therapists and other healthcare professionals to conduct fitness-to-drive (FTD) assessments in Britain.

This legislation represents a significant step towards a faster process in medical licensing. And while the DVLA continues to dispatch the medical questionnaires to doctors, the decision now considers the most appropriate healthcare professional for the assessment. (1)

Not only are Occupational Therapists suited for FTD assessments, but their expert knowledge also allows them to help develop driver rehabilitation programmes or ensure independence when using public transport.

stepping stones

The next step to driving safely

Those who have suffered a brain injury may face issues when they get back on the road, both mentally and physically. For some road crash victims with a brain injury, their driving skills retention hasn’t been affected, and they can return to driving after. But for others it is not so straight forward, and there are legal requirements.

If you drive and have a brain injury, you are required to tell the DVLA. If the proper authorities are not told, you can be fined up to £1000.

For those regaining their confidence and/or those with cognitive or visual impairments after a brain injury, hazard perception apps are one of the best ways to ease yourself into driving again. (2)

There are apps both on Apple and Android, and while many of them are free, the official DVSA hazard perception app is a £2.99 one-time purchase.

Taking a backseat

For some, driving with a brain injury may not be possible. But every cloud has a silver lining: travelling around England has become much more accessible for people with neuro and mobility challenges.

Welcome, Hubs Mobility Advice Service!

This service covers fifteen areas in England, providing advice on accessible travel options for those who are no longer able to drive. (3)

HMAS offers:

A plethora of free information

Transport guidance

Purchasing advice for scooters and wheelchairs

Information on the rights of a disabled passenger

Rehabilitation after a road crash is vital, and occupational therapy can assist victims in restoring their independence and self-esteem.

Occupational therapy is about providing the tools and support necessary for individuals to not only reclaim their place behind the wheel, but to also reclaim their place on the road of life.

A conclusion on Road Victim Month

As Road Victim Month draws to a close, we at Krysalis reflect on the poignant stories of resilience and rehabilitation that have touched our hearts.

Throughout the important discourse of road safety measures and the narratives of road crash victims, the role of occupational therapy has been illuminated as a beacon of hope.

Together, all these elements weave a tight-knit tapestry of awareness, prevention, and recovery. It reminds us that collective action and support can pave the way for safer roads and brighter futures for all.

Lastly, we at Krysalis extend our heartfelt congratulations and thanks to RoadPeace (@RoadPeacecharity) for organising such an invaluable awareness month. It has been our pleasure to contribute to the advocacy for safer roads for all.