WVU TODAY
On roads across West Virginia drivers may face a variety of conditions. From rain and fog to hills and sharp turns, drivers have to be prepared for the unexpected. For individuals recovering from traumatic injuries, these conditions can prove to be even more challenging.
Now, the West Virginia University School of Medicine is providing new hope to help ease patients back behind the wheel, thanks to a new driving simulator.
The simulator, operated by faculty in the Division of Occupation Therapy, is designed to emulate a Ford Focus and mimics a real driving experience with varying weather conditions and day-to-night experiences.
According to Jacob Greenfield, assistant professor of Occupational Therapy, the simulator is vital in helping patients become comfortable and confident behind the wheel following an accident or injury.
Occupational therapists test patients’ driving abilities and reactions in an otherwise controlled environment, allowing patients to increase their confidence and fine tune their skills.
Patients are referred by their physicians, assessed on the simulator and then the care team works on the best path forward.
While patients may feel nervous to have their driving abilities assessed, Greenfield offers assurance that the process is meant to ensure patients can return to driving in a safe manner.
“We’re here to help the drivers assess their own comfort level and safety, too,” Greenfield said. “Many patients report it as a positive experience.”
Not only is the simulator an option for patients, it’s also a learning tool for students in the Occupation Therapy program.
According to Madison Bailey, a third-year occupational therapy student from Bridgeport, using the new simulator has helped provide a better understand of the patient experience.
“When you are watching someone use the simulator it can feel like a video game, but once you’re in the seat yourself it feels like you’re immersed in the driving setting and can get real-world experiences,” said Bailey. “It serves an advantage to students because we get to see real evaluations for patients.”
Greenfield is hopeful that the simulator will improve access to patient care related to driving rehabilitation while also introducing a new side of occupation therapy to students in the program.
More information: 304-293-3600.
