PERSPECTIVES FROM THE FIELD: DESIGNING THE DRIVING CESSATION IN DEMENTIA INTERVENTION TOOLKIT (DCD-IT)

Introduction Decision-making about driving cessation and transitioning to non-driving is a challenging and complex issue faced by drivers diagnosed with dementia and their families. Driving cessation is associated with adverse psychosocial and health-related impacts for persons with dementia including a reduction in quality of life. To address the gap in evidence-based interventions that support individuals in the driving cessation process, we developed the Driving Cessation in Dementia Intervention Toolkit (DCD-IT). Our objective in this study was to further develop and refine the DCD-IT (content, design and mode of delivery) to facilitate its effective implementation in settings that support older adults with dementia. Methods Representatives (n=15) from Alzheimer Society organizations in British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario and Nova Scotia reviewed the DCD-IT and provided feedback via a webinar, questionnaire and in-depth interviews. Data analysis techniques included thematic coding and inductive analysis. Results Participants emphasized the lack of accessible and trusted driving cessation resources specific to meeting the needs of persons with dementia (PWD) and their family caregivers. They identified gaps and corresponding areas of focus to inform the continued development and design of the DCD-IT, which included: materials directed separately to PWD encompassing appropriate content, language and design; resources geared to helping healthcare providers engage in discussions with PWD and family caregivers; information for PWD, family caregivers and healthcare providers about region-specific driving regulations and alternative transportation options. Conclusions Obtaining the perspectives of Alzheimer Society representatives have informed improvements to the content and design of the DCD-IT. Next steps include evaluating the implementation process of the intervention framework and toolkit in Alzheimer Society chapters in community settings in Ontario with the aim of informing widespread implementation and adaption across Canada. This research was funded by Canadian Institute of Health Research/Canadian Consortium on Neurodegeneration in Aging.