The UQ Driver Retirement InitiatiVE (UQDRIVE) is a comprehensive resource
package, designed for health professionals assisting older people to achieve better
transport and lifestyle outcomes when they cease driving.
o Listen to the 2004 UQDRIVE interview with Spencer Howson from ABC 612: includes interviews with UQDRIVE participants and Dr Jacki Liddle (This file is an mp3, you will need to open it with windows media player, itunes or a similar programme).
UQDRIVE grew out of doctoral research conducted by Dr Jacki Liddle under the supervision of Associate Professor Kryss McKenna, Dr Merril Turpin, Dr Glenys Carlson and Dr Robin Findlay. The initial three year research program involved qualitative and quantitative methodologies and interviews with approximately 250 participants (older drivers, retired drivers, older people who had never driven, family members of retired drivers and health professionals).
It was clear that retiring from driving can have a major impact on the lives of retiring drivers, their family members, and health professionals working with them. Equally, it was found that retirement from driving can lead to positive outcomes. With time and support, lifestyles and quality of life can be maintained after retiring from driving. Important factors in the ultimate outcome of this transition appeared to be planning, support in the local area and an emotional adjustment process. While some retiring drivers are able to independently plan and adjust, others may need more support, or merely some ideas and direction to begin adjustment.
This led to the development of resources which were trialled in a pilot study in South East Queensland. The investigators are now undertaking a 3-year randomised controlled trial study funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC). This work is being undertaken as a joint research project by the Division of Occupational Therapy - School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, and the Schools of Psychology and Medicine.
Do you live in South East Queensland? If you are interested in participating in the UQDRIVE research, please contact:
+61 07 33467487 or
uqdriveteam@uq.edu.au