Abstract
Eighty one young people with myelomeningocele and hydrocephalus were assessed for
driving ability during the period 1982-1984. All except 6 were eligible to hold a
provisional licence. At December 1988, over 50% were qualified drivers. Differences
in the number of hours of tuition, tests and the difficulties encountered varied for
both the driver group and those who had discontinued tuition. Difficulties related
to (a) practical and financial considerations and (b) the organisation of tuition.
A smaller group of 20 was monitored during tuition within a two year period. Prior
to tuition, 10 attended a one week driving course designed to introduce car control
skills and simple road procedures. A further 10 learner drivers, who had not attended
a course, were similarly monitored through the tuition period. Learner drivers were
reviewed by in-car testing and interview after each ten hours' tuition.
At the end of the two year period, 40 % of learner drivers had passed the driving
test, 45% were still receiving tuition and 15% had discontinued lessons. Equal numbers
from both groups were qualified drivers but 30% of those who had not attended a course
had discontinued tuition. Significant factors for driving success included the availability
of instructors and suitably adapted cars, frequency of tuition and level of parental
and community support.
Future planning for driver education should consider providing driving facilities
in local centres. Facilities would need to include adapted cars, experienced instructors
and key-workers to coordinate tuition and fulfil a supportive role.
Key words
Assessment - Car driving - Spina bifida and hydrocephalus
