“… my life is so inhibited by the fact that I am unable to drive…” A study examining the effect of epilepsy on driving

Driving is a job, a hobby and a form of transport that enables occupation. It is both an occupation and an occupation enabler. This study investigated the impact of the inability to drive due to epilepsy on community mobility and occupational participation. Data was collected through an internet based survey. Quantitative data was analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and content analysis was used with qualitative data. Brainwave, the Irish Epilepsy Association acted as gatekeeper. The survey received 95 eligible participants. When unable to drive, the main mode of transport was lifts from friends and relatives. Participants did also use public transport more than the general population. As a result people experienced restricted access to places, had to give up activities, had a reduced quality of life and a lowered self perception. Significantly more men than women felt that driving cessation had a negative impact on romantic relationships (p=0.024). Significantly more people diagnosed in adulthood than those diagnosed in childhood felt that driving cessation negatively impacted both the cost of transport (p=0.035) and their quality of life (p=0.029). The role of occupational therapy in the area of driving and community mobility was identified.