Translation of a validated driver screening tool for clinical assessment and research use

This report documents the production and translation of a novel evidence-based screening battery designed to identify older drivers at risk of unsafe driving. The screening battery, known as the Multi-D, is based on ten years of older driver research conducted by K Anstey and J Wood. It represents a novel approach to older driver screening that takes into account age-related changes in vision, sensorimotor skills and cognition that are associated with onroad driving. The project involved updating and producing five copies of the Multi-D test battery, along with a manual for test administration and installation, and an instructional video. Production of the test kits enabled the Multi-D to be translated to other research projects and into a validation study looking at clinical application of the Multi-D in the older driver assessment setting. This NHMRC funded study will be conducted over 5 years and will compare the validity of several driver screening tests including the Multi-D against on-road driving. The study will be run with participants recruited from the community as well as from ACT Health Directoraters Driver Assessment and Rehabilitation Service, and will include the sharing of experience and knowledge regarding older driver assessment between researchers and practitioners. Results from this study and related research projects will contribute to the current body of data on the Multi-D as a predictor of older-adultsr driving ability, and also provide data on its sensitivity to changes induced by intervention programs. This information will be used to update and further develop the Multi-D and improve its utility in a clinical setting.