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Purpose: This phenomenological study explored older people's experience of driver licence cancellation. Methods: Qualitative data were derived from interviews with four men and one woman, aged between 68 and 87 years (mean age = 78.6 years). Results: Driver licence cancellation was a deeply traumatic and shocking experience. Driving had been a normal and accepted part of life, and cancellation of their driver licences meant the loss of their independence. They lost their means of identification, and they were confronted with future losses and the deep sadness associated with these. Conclusions: There is a need for sensitive health-care practices that consider the devastating consequences of licence cancellation, and support older people through the difficulties associated with adjusting to life without a driver licence.

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Background and Aims:Determining if a person with dementia should be referred for a driver assessment, at what stage of the illness and how often to repeat this are difficult decisions for health professionals. The aims of this study were to develop criteria for driver assessment referral and to explore the value of routine reassessment for drivers with dementia. Methods and Results: Twenty participants with a diagnosis of dementia were recruited from a memory clinic and underwent a standard occupational therapy driver assessment and reassessment 6 months later. Fifteen failed the initial assessment but 10 went on to pass local area assessments. Some participants in the early stages of the disease failed. Five of the nine participants suitable for reassessment at 6 months also failed. Conclusion:The results confirmed that routine referral following the diagnosis of dementia is appropriate. Change in performance was noted at reassessment, confirming that 6 months between assessments is an appropriate timeframe.

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