Northeast Chapter Meeting May 19, 2026 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM ET | Live-Virtual, Online | 1.5 ADED Contact Hours | Members $15 / Non-Members $30
All attendees will need to have their cameras ON for the duration of the event for attendance verification.
Deadline to register: May 15, 2026 5PM ET

Schedule (subject to change)
6:00 - Opening of meeting and introductions
6:15-7:15 – Speaker: Integrating Low Vision Skills and Collaboration for Bioptic Driving
7:15-7:20 - 5-minute break
7:20-7:45 – Discussion/Questions
7:45-8:00 - Closing/Business meeting

Integrating Low Vision Skills and Collaboration for Bioptic Driving. Presenter: Leslie Prescott, OTD, OTR/L, SCLV

This session equips occupational therapists, driver rehabilitation specialists, and allied health professionals with a structured understanding of the foundational low vision rehabilitation skills required prior to bioptic driver training. Low vision intervention plays a critical role in developing the visual, cognitive, and adaptive processing skills necessary for safe and successful bioptic driving readiness.

Participants will learn evidence-based strategies to maximize functional use of available vision, including eccentric viewing training, visual scanning techniques, contrast sensitivity management, and glare mitigation. Emphasis will be placed on preparing clients for referral to Certified Driver Rehabilitation Specialists through a collaborative, interdisciplinary model involving licensing agencies, eye care professionals, Occupational Therapists, CDRSs, and CDIs to ensure optimal safety and outcomes.

Learning Objectives:

1. Identify key foundational visual skills required for bioptic driving readiness, including eccentric viewing, scanning, and contrast adaptation strategies.
2. Differentiate the role of the Low Vision Occupational Therapist from that of the Driver Rehabilitation Specialist in the bioptic training continuum.
3. Describe an interdisciplinary collaboration model that supports safe referral, training progression, and licensure preparation for bioptic drivers.

Attendance at the entire event is required to earn contact hours, no partial hours are awarded. Registration confirmation and payment receipts are e-mailed to the attendee. All cancellations for live-virtual events must be made in writing to the ADED Executive Office by 5/1/2026; a 20% handling fee will be charged. Refunds will not be issued after this date or for “no-shows.” Partial refunds will not be granted. ADED reserves the right to modify content, timetable, change speakers, or cancel events due to unforeseen/unavoidable circumstances at any time. If ADED cancels an event, a full refund will be provided to registrants. ADED does not offer refunds because of technological issues, should the ADED experience a platform outage, attendees will be provided an appropriate credit.  All complaints relative to the content, instructor, and registration procedures are to be directed to the ADED executive office: 200 1st Ave NW #505 Hickory NC 28601 or via email eLearning@aded.net.  

ADED's Education Code of Conduct applies to this and all ADED education. 

Midwest Chapter Meeting | May 15, 2026: 11:45 AM - 5:00 PM ET| May 16, 2026: 7:30 AM - 12:00 PM ET | Live, In-Person | 7 ADED Contact Hours | Members $100 / Non-Members $200 USD
Deadline to register: May 5, 2026 6PM ET 
Attendance at the entire event is required to earn contact hours, no partial hours are awarded.

Location: Davenport University 6191 Kraft Ave SE, Davenport, MI 49512

Lunch will be provided upon registration on Friday 5/15. Please allow enough time to register and eat lunch before the first education session begins at 12:30 PM. 

Hotel & Lodging:
We have reserved a hotel room block at the Holiday Inn Express (4888 Town Center Drive SE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49512).
The room block availability closes on 4/24/26, so please book by this date to get the special rate. Follow THIS LINK to book with the ADED Midwest special rate.

Other hotel option:
TownPlace Suites by Marriott Grand Rapids Airport Southeast | 4850 Town Center Dr SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49512 \ Website

Parking and location information:
The meeting will be taking place in the OT department on the lower level of the Richard M. DeVos and Jay Van Andel Academic Center (building 6 on the parking map). Please refer to the campus map HERE.
The closest parking is in Lot A. If Lot A is full, you may park in Lot B or C. Please see the parking and building map for further information. 

If parking in Lot A-- you will be entering the Academic Center (Bldg. 6) on the lower level. The elevator will be straight ahead, turn left at the hallway next to the elevator. The OT classroom (Rm.  034) will be on the right. 
If parking in Lot B or C--you will be entering the main doors of the Academic Center (Bldg. 6) on the upper level. The information desk will be to your right, stairs will be straight ahead, and the elevator on the left. You may go down the stairs or take the elevator down to LL. Turn right for the OT Hallway and the classroom (Rm. 034) will be on your right. 

Parking Passes—Attendees will need one for each day. They can be printed in Black and white. Please print a pass and bring with you to the meeting to display on your dashboard.

Parking Pass and Map are downloadable in the handouts section once you are registered

Schedule (subject to change):
Friday 5/15/26
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM              Registration and lunch (boxed lunches provided by Clock Mobility)
12:30 PM - 2:00 PM              Assessing Visual Fitness to Drive Lori Smolinski, O.D., Certified Low Vision Specialist & Christina Hedlich, MS, OTR/L, SCLV
2:00 - 2:15 PM                       Break 
2:15PM - 3:15 PM                 Supporting Safe Mobility for Older Adults: Training and Design Considerations for Advanced Vehicle Technologies Renée St. Louis, PhD
3:15 - 3:30 PM                       Break (snack and beverage provided)
3:30 - 5:00 PM                      When Vision Drifts: The Impact of Convergence, Divergence, and Midline Shift on Driver Performance Heather Heppe, MSOTRL, CDRS, CDI

Saturday 5/16/26
7:30 - 8:00 AM                        Registration (light food and beverage provided)
8:00 - 8:10 AM                        Sponsor Address – Sure Grip
8:10 - 8:45 AM                        Chapter business meeting
8:45 - 10:45 AM                     Understanding Alzheimer's and Dementia & 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer's and Dementia Claire Fisher, MPA
10:45 - 11:00 AM                     Break (snack provided by Clock Mobility)
11:00 - 12:00 PM                   How driver rehabilitation professionals are collaborating with state agencies and building awareness for aging road users: An overview of efforts in various Midwest states
                                              followed by a panel discussion Julie Dominik, OT/L, CDRS, LDI
12:00 PM                                Closing

Friday May 15, 2026
Assessing Visual Fitness to Drive - Presenters: Lori Smolinski, O.D., Certified Low Vision and Christina Hedlich, MS, OTR/L, SCLV

Many ocular diseases and visual impairments affect driving. Participants will learn about the most common eye conditions to be considered in a driver’s rehabilitation and how their symptoms should be addressed. Visual sequelae such as visual field loss, decreased contrast sensitivity and glare issues will be detailed. Assessment tools, including visual fields and visual acuity measurement will be discussed. The DRS should feel more comfortable interpreting reports from eye care professionals. Both presenters will discuss how we determine who is appropriate for driver’s rehabilitation given our different skill sets. There will be a refresher on bioptic driving. We will also discuss the process and procedures for visually impaired drivers in the State of Michigan and the successful collaboration we have experienced between occupational therapy, optometry and driver’s rehabilitation in our area. 

Learning Objectives:

1. Obtain a better understanding of how various visual impairments affect driving.
2. Demonstrate a successful multi-disciplinary approach to getting only appropriate drivers through the process of the low vision clinic through to driver’s rehabilitation and a successful road test.

Supporting Safe Mobility for Older Adults: Training and Design Considerations for Advanced Vehicle Technologies - Presenter: Renée St. Louis, PhD

Research on advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) among older drivers suggests these technologies have the potential to improve driving safety and extend safe mobility by helping drivers compensate for health and functional changes commonly experienced later in life. However, realizing these potential benefits depends on older drivers’ awareness, understanding, and effective use of ADAS within their own vehicles. This presentation draws on findings from a series of three studies examining older adults’ experiences with vehicle technologies, highlighting the critical role of trust and acceptance in technology adoption. The results also underscore the importance of including older adults in the design of ADAS features and related training programs to ensure that these technologies are intuitive, usable, and aligned with drivers’ needs. Findings emphasize the value of human-centered design and inclusive training approaches to support technology adoption and maximize the safety and mobility benefits of ADAS for older adults. 

Learning Objectives:

1. Analyze the impact of functional aging on driving safety and mobility. Participants will be able to identify how age-related changes in perception, cognition, and psychomotor skills affect safe vehicle operation and describe potential psychosocial consequences of driving cessation, including social isolation and declines in health and well-being.
2. Evaluate barriers to technology adoption among older adults. Participants will be able to distinguish between the availability of advanced driver assistance systems and their actual use, and identify how current design approaches and self-directed learning methods may fail to meet the needs of older drivers.
3. Apply human-centered design (HCD) principles and training strategies to transportation solutions. Participants will be able to describe the five stages of the HCD process (Empathize, Define, Ideate, Prototype, Test) and explain how experiential, hands-on training approaches can increase trust in and effective use of safety-enhancing vehicle technologies. 

When Vision Drifts: The Impact of Convergence, Divergence, and Midline Shift on Driver Performance - Prsenter: Heather Heppe, MSOTRL, CDRS, CDI 

Driving requires precise binocular coordination and accurate spatial alignment to maintain lane position, monitor hazards, and shift focus efficiently between near and far targets. Convergence and divergence dysfunction can impair visual stability, delay response times, and increase visual fatigue. Midline shift further disrupts spatial orientation, potentially leading to lane drift, inconsistent steering, and compromised driver confidence.

These visual disturbances are frequently observed following concussion, neurological injury, and other binocular vision disorders encountered in rehabilitation settings. Despite their impact, they are often under-recognized contributors to driving difficulty.

This presentation explores the functional role of convergence, divergence, and midline alignment in driver performance. Participants will review clinical assessment strategies and evidence-informed rehabilitation approaches that translate directly to on-road outcomes. Emphasis will be placed on interdisciplinary collaboration between rehabilitation specialists and Certified Driving Rehabilitation Specialist to enhance safety, restore confidence, and optimize return-to-driving success.

Learning Objectives

1. Describe the roles of convergence and divergence in maintaining visual stability and efficient focus shifts during driving tasks.
2. Identify clinical signs of midline shift and binocular dysfunction that may contribute to lane drift, steering inconsistency, and reduced hazard awareness.
3. Apply evidence-informed assessment strategies to evaluate visual alignment deficits impacting driver performance.
4. Integrate targeted rehabilitation and on-road training strategies to improve spatial alignment, driver safety, and return-to-driving outcomes. 

Saturday May 16, 2026
Understanding Alzheimer's and Dementia & 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer's and Dementia - Presented by: Claire Fisher, MPA

Learn the difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia, Alzheimer’s stages and risk factors, current research and available treatments and ways the Alzheimer’s Association can help. Alzheimer’s and other dementias cause changes in memory, thinking, and behavior that interfere with daily life. Attendees will learn ten common warning signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. 

Learning Objectives:

1. Attendees will learn about risk factors, current research, and treatments for Alzheimer’s and other dementias
2. Attendees will be able to identify ten common Alzheimer’s warning warning signs
3. Attendees will be able to identify ways in which IADLs are affected by Alzheimer’s, including community mobility
4. Attendees will identify various resources available in the community to provide enhanced support to clients and their families 

How driver rehabilitation professionals are collaborating with state agencies and building awareness for aging road users: An overview of efforts in various Midwest states followed by a panel discussion - Presented by: Julie Dominik, OT/L, CDRS, LDI

This session will explore efforts and opportunities for driver rehabilitation professionals to be involved in working with state agencies as it relates to aging road users and medically at-risk drivers. Among the many duties of state drivers licensing agencies is protecting public safety on their roadways. This requires making decisions concerning an individual’s fitness to drive safely to operate a motor vehicle. As indicated in ADED’s document “The Role of Driver Rehabilitation in Determining Fitness to Drive,” the driver rehabilitation professional is an asset when determining an individual's fitness to drive, whether that is being determined before or after the attention of the state agency. Each state agency has different operational policies and procedures while not all state agencies have medical review boards with the role of the driver rehabilitation professional having the potential to be impactful in both situations. Additionally, many state traffic safety agencies have been developing resources to educate aging drivers, their families, and professions about a range of factors related to aging drivers. Driver rehabilitation professionals are in a unique position to help shape these efforts to facilitate better outcomes for older drivers as well as to educate our communities about the important role of driver rehabilitation. An overview of current efforts in Ohio, Michigan, and Illinois will be provided followed by a discussion panel for questions, concerns, and idea generation.

Learning Objectives:

1. Provide examples of 2-3 different ways driver rehabilitation professionals are working with state licensing agencies in determining fitness to drive for aging road users and medically at-risk drivers.
2. Identify various ways in which driver rehabilitation providers are involved in statewide initiatives to promote traffic safety as it relates to aging drivers.
3. By learning from panel members from various states, attendees will gain a better understanding of ways to become more involved in their own states’ aging and at-risk driver populations and be better positioned to promote the field of driver rehabilitation. 

Sponsors:

  

Attendance at the entire event is required to earn contact hours, no partial hours are awarded. Registration confirmation and payment receipts are e-mailed to the attendee. All cancellations must be made in writing to the ADED Executive Office by 4/15/2026; a 20% handling fee will be charged. Refunds will not be issued after this date or for “no-shows.” Partial refunds will not be granted. ADED reserves the right to modify content, timetable, change speakers, or cancel events due to unforeseen/unavoidable circumstances at any time. If ADED cancels an event, a full refund will be provided to registrants. All complaints relative to the content, instructor, and registration procedures are to be directed to the ADED executive office: 200 1st Ave NW #505 Hickory NC 28601 or via email eLearning@aded.net  

ADED's Education Code of Conduct applies to this and all ADED education. 

Connection & Conversations 

May 13, 20266 12:00 - 12:45 PM ET | Registration closes at 5 PM ET on 5/12/2026

Complimentary Event - open to ADED Members who provide driver rehab services. 

After registration, go to the contents tab to submit a topic for discussion. Please note, submission will close 48 hours prior to an event. 

Join us for an informal, unscripted session designed to spark meaningful conversation among driver rehabilitation specialists. Whether you’re seeking connection, clarity, or perspective, you’re not alone—many peers share the same successes, challenges, and frustrations.

Participants are encouraged to exchange practical tips, insights, and, most importantly, support one another on items related to driver rehab practice. Open to both newcomers and seasoned professionals, these discussions provide a space to ask questions, share experiences, and explore real-world challenges together.

If you’re looking for candid dialogue, spontaneous discussion, and a lecture-free environment, this is the place to be. Come ready to engage, collaborate, and benefit from shared experiences and peer-driven learning. No contact hours offered. 

Traffic Safety for Driver Rehabilitation 2026

May 4-8, 2026 | 6 PM ET - 9:15 PM ET | Live-Virtual Online | 15 ADED Contact Hours
Early bird rate Member $450 / Non-member $900 until 4/4/26 5 PM ET
After 4/4/26 Member $550 / Non-member $1100

Registration is limited and closes when sold out or 5 PM ET on 4/27/2026

• This is a live-virtual, multi-day course conducted over five consecutive evenings for a total of 15 ADED contact hours.
• Attendees will join the live-virtual event via ADED eLearning to engage in the learning event. 
• Attendees will have access to the content and session recordings until June 8, 2026. 
• Course handouts will be provided in a digital format by the start of the course. 
• Attendees will have access to an online discussion board to communicate with instructors and other attendees during the course. 
• To use this course for ADED credentials maintenance, attendance live for the duration of all virtual sessions is required to earn 15 ADED Contact Hours.*

Abstract

This ADED course is designed for the new driving evaluator.  The skills and knowledge needed to establish an adaptive driving program or become a new staff member for an established program will be discussed and shared.  The course will also cover the following topics:  development of a clinical and on road evaluation, basic training techniques, introduction to adaptive equipment, best practices in documentation and interactions with equipment vendors.  

Goals/Objectives

By the end of this program, participants will be able to:

• Discuss the basic components of a driver rehabilitation clinical evaluation
• Analyze the basic components of a driver rehabilitation on road assessment.
• Assess the resources for networking within the driver rehabilitation community
• Develop the necessary and optional components for starting a driver rehabilitation program
• Identify the key stakeholders in the field of driver rehabilitation
• Assess the sequence of basic on road training techniques.

Presented by Jill Sclease, CTRS, CDRS 

Thank you sponsors!

Registration confirmation and payment receipts are e-mailed to the attendee. All cancellations for live-virtual events must be made in writing to the ADED Executive Office by April 24, 2026; a 20% handling fee will be charged. Refunds will not be issued after this date or for “no-shows.” Partial refunds will not be granted. ADED reserves the right to modify content, timetable, change speakers, or cancel events due to unforeseen/unavoidable circumstances at any time. If ADED cancels an event, a full refund will be provided to registrants. ADED does not offer refunds because of technological issues, should the ADED experience a platform outage, attendees will be provided an appropriate credit.  All complaints relative to the content, instructor, and registration procedures are to be directed to the ADED executive office: 200 1st Ave NW #505 Hickory NC 28601 or via email eLearning@aded.net

*Current CDRS' & DRPs please refer to policy 403 for educational activity and maximum contact hours. Attendance at all live virtual sessions is required to earn 15 ADED Contact Hours. 

ADED's Education Code of Conduct applies to this and all ADED education.  

We expect the same level of attention for live-virtual education as at in person events. Please be prepared to have your camera on and respond to attendance verification prompts to earn your contact hours. 

This course has been approved by The Council on Professional Standards for Kinesiotherapy (COPSKT) for 15 contact hours or 1.5 CEU's.

KY/TN/WV Chapter Meeting April 29, 2026 8:45 AM - 1:30 PM ET | Live-Virtual, Online | 4 ADED Contact Hours | Members $40 / Non-Members $80
All attendees will need to have their cameras ON for the duration of the event for attendance verification.
Deadline to register: April 28, 2026 10 AM ET

Schedule
8:45 – 9:00 am: Business meeting: ADED Conference dates, any new business, review agenda 
9:00 - 10:00 am: Driver Rehab and Patients with Autism
10:00 – 11:00 am: Neuropathy & Fitness-to-Drive
11:15 am – 1:15 pm: Addressing the Transportation Needs of Young, Novice Students with Central Vision Loss Who Want to Explore Driving
1:15 – 1:30 pm: Close Meeting

Driver Rehab and Patients with Autism. Presenter: Suzanne Farnan-Maddux, OTR/L, CDRS

This session discusses specialized approaches for driver evaluations, training and education for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder. This is information on ASD and Neurodiversity, research insights, theoretical building blocks, assessing the potential to drive, and behind-the-wheel practical strategies.   

Learning Objectives:

• To provide a summary of research education strategies and assessments for clients with ASD.
• To identify comorbidities that can also affect a client with ASD as they begin the evaluation training process.
• To give examples of training skill for operational, tactical and strategic driving behaviors.

Neuropathy & Fitness-to-Drive. Presenter: Christy S. Horner, OTR/L, CDRS 

Neuropathy is a prevalent and often progressive condition that can significantly affect driving safety through sensory loss, motor weakness, impaired proprioception, and delayed reaction time. These impairments may compromise critical driving tasks such as pedal control, speed regulation, and timely response to roadway hazards risk (Perazzolo et al., 2019). Driver Rehabilitation Specialists are uniquely positioned to assess fitness-to-drive and support safe, client-centered mobility decision-making with individuals with neuropathy. This presentation will examine how different types of neuropathy impact driver safety and highlight signs of increased risk, Consistent with national medical fitness-to-drive guidance emphasizing functional assessment over diagnosis alone, participants will review evidence-based clinical and road evaluation strategies relevant to drivers with neuropathy (Staplin et al., 2016). Case-based examples will guide clinical reasoning regarding fitness-to-drive, use of adaptive equipment, driving restrictions, or driving cessation. Ethical and legal considerations related to driving recommendations with individuals with neuropathy will be discussed, along with practical strategies for counseling clients and families about driving risk and transition planning. Emphasis will be placed on applying assessment findings to real-world decision-making within the DRS scope of practice.

Learning Objectives:

• Describe how sensory, motor, and autonomic neuropathies affect driving tasks, such as controlling the pedals, reaction speed, and maintaining proper lane position.
• Identify clinical red flags and functional indicators that warrant a comprehensive driving evaluation.
• Utilize evidence-based guidelines to select and interpret clinical and road assessment tools for drivers with neuropathy.
• Determine when compensatory strategies, adaptive equipment, or vehicle modifications may support continued safe driving.
• Apply clinical reasoning to distinguish between drive with modifications, restrict, or recommend cessation, using case-based examples.
• Use effective counseling strategies for clients and families about driving risks, safety, and transition planning.

Addressing the Transportation Needs of Young, Novice Students with Central Vision Loss Who Want to Explore Driving. Presenter: Chuck Huss, COMS, Driver Rehabilitation Specialist 

This presentation will provide updates re the status, number of ADED in-car service providers, and proposed methods of service delivery re adaptive driving services (including a sampling of covered skill areas) for young (high school age), novice bioptic driving candidates in the United States. It will also shed light on how some states and consumer organizations are doing their part in addressing the unmet transportation needs of such students with visual impairments via related conferences, workshops and webinars. And lastly it will summarize preliminary feedback received to date, after dissemination of an adaptive driving services survey questionnaire and related e-mail correspondence, from a sampling of school administrators and/or assigned staff/consultants of select schools for the blind re proposed pre-driver readiness training and a full gamut of adaptive driving services.

Learning Objectives:

• To obtain an up-to-date number of the states that currently allow or recognize the muse of prescription bioptic telescopic lens systems for driving.
• To obtain an up-to-date number and state location of ADED service providers for in-car bioptic driving services.
• Gain awareness of proposed methods of service delivery for both expanded pre-driver readiness as well as the full gamut of adaptive driving services for eligible school-age students with central vision impairments who want to explore driving.
• Shed light on what a sampling of states and consumer organizations are doing to assist in addressing the unmet transportation needs of young, novice (never been licensed) students who want to explore driving.   
• Provide an overview of the results of an informal survey questionnaire and related e-mail correspondence re the need or interest in formalized adaptive driving services at select residential schools for the blind and visually impaired in the United States.

Attendance at the entire event is required to earn contact hours, no partial hours are awarded. Registration confirmation and payment receipts are e-mailed to the attendee. All cancellations for live-virtual events must be made in writing to the ADED Executive Office by 3/29/2026; a 20% handling fee will be charged. Refunds will not be issued after this date or for “no-shows.” Partial refunds will not be granted. ADED reserves the right to modify content, timetable, change speakers, or cancel events due to unforeseen/unavoidable circumstances at any time. If ADED cancels an event, a full refund will be provided to registrants. ADED does not offer refunds because of technological issues, should the ADED experience a platform outage, attendees will be provided an appropriate credit.  All complaints relative to the content, instructor, and registration procedures are to be directed to the ADED executive office: 200 1st Ave NW #505 Hickory NC 28601 or via email eLearning@aded.net  

ADED's Education Code of Conduct applies to this and all ADED education. 

Texas Chapter Meeting | April 24, 2026 | 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM PT | Live, In-Person | 7 ADED Contact Hours | Members $70 / Non-Members $140
Location: 3100 TX-47, Bryan, TX 77807 | Hotel & Lodging: https://www.destinationbryan.com/stay/

Deadline to register: April 22, 2026 6PM ET

Schedule (subject to change) 
8:00 – 8:30 am: Welcome and Introduction
8:30 - 11:30 am: Low to High Tech Options
11:30 – 12:00 pm: Lunch Break
12:00 – 2:00 pm: Vehicle Setup, Positioning, & Wheelchair-Based Driving
2:00 – 4:00 pm: Resources, Expert Insights & Wrap-Up
4:00 – 4:30 pm: Q&A, Resource Distribution, and Course Evaluations 

Low to High Tech Options - Presenter: Chad Strowmatt, OTD, CDRS

Review of adaptive technologies from basic (pedal extenders) to advanced (joystick systems), selection criteria, cost considerations, and evidence-based matching to client needs. Discussion with real vehicles including EMC, custom orthotics, and more. 

Learning Objectives:

1. Identify and differentiate low-tech versus high-tech adaptive driving equipment options based on functional client needs and impairments.
2. Apply clinical criteria to select appropriate primary and secondary controls, including hand controls and electronic interfaces.
3. Evaluate cost, installation, and evidence-based outcomes for various adaptive solutions to inform prescription decisions. Discuss safety guidelines and potential risks associated with mismatched adaptive equipment.
4. Discuss safety guidelines and potential risks associated with mismatched adaptive equipment. 

Vehicle Setup, Positioning & Wheelchair-Based Driving - Presenters: Brandon Higgs, OTR, CDRS 

Focuses on transfers/seating, wheelchair driving feasibility, and interactive discussion, beginning with Transfers, Seating, and Positioning from where participants explore safe transfer techniques, custom seating systems, ergonomic vehicle modifications, and seamless integration with adaptive equipment, followed by a interactive discussion on Driving from a Wheelchair  that uses case-based exploration to address real-world challenges, alternative solutions, practical feasibility, and collaborative problem-solving,  

Learning Objectives:

1. Demonstrate safe and effective transfer techniques for clients with mobility impairments entering/exiting adapted vehicles.
2. Describe principles of custom seating, positioning, and ergonomic adjustments to support safe driving with adaptive equipment.
3. Assess feasibility criteria and safety standards for driving from a power wheelchair, including securement and crash protection
4. Identify common challenges and evidence-based alternatives for wheelchair-integrated driving solutions.

Resources, Expert Insights & Wrap-Up - Presenter: D. Lance Bullard, MS

Representatives/presentations from Texas A&M Transportation Institute (TTI), Texas Workforce Solutions / Vocational Rehabilitation, NMEDA (National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association), and NHTSA on safety guidelines, standards, funding, and resources

Learning Objectives:

1. Summarize current safety standards, funding options, and resources from TTI, NMEDA, NHTSA, and Texas Vocational Rehabilitation for adaptive driving programs.
2. Analyze complex case scenarios involving wheelchair driving to determine feasibility, risks, and appropriate interventions.
3. Apply interdisciplinary insights to enhance clinical reasoning and client outcomes in driver rehabilitation.
4. Identify key resources and networks for ongoing professional development in adaptive equipment prescription.

Attendance at the entire event is required to earn contact hours, no partial hours are awarded. Registration confirmation and payment receipts are e-mailed to the attendee. All cancellations must be made in writing to the ADED Executive Office by 3/24/2026; a 20% handling fee will be charged. Refunds will not be issued after this date or for “no-shows.” Partial refunds will not be granted. ADED reserves the right to modify content, timetable, change speakers, or cancel events due to unforeseen/unavoidable circumstances at any time. If ADED cancels an event, a full refund will be provided to registrants. ADED does not offer refunds because of technological issues, should the ADED experience a platform outage, attendees will be provided an appropriate credit.  All complaints relative to the content, instructor, and registration procedures are to be directed to the ADED executive office: 200 1st Ave NW #505 Hickory NC 28601 or via email eLearning@aded.net  

ADED's Education Code of Conduct applies to this and all ADED education. 

Florida Chapter Meeting | April 20, 2026 | 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM ET | Live-Virtual, Online | Members Only
All attendees will need to have their cameras ON for the duration of the event for attendance verification.

Schedule (subject to change)
7:00-7:10 - Brief introduction of attendees
7:10-7:15 – Provide info on ADED Memorial Scholarship Fund
7:15-7:40 - Open discussion forum
7:40-7:50 – Survey members on interests they have for different topics that could be explored in additional meetings throughout the year
7:50-8:00 - Last questions and wrap up

All complaints relative to the content, instructor, and registration procedures are to be directed to the ADED executive office: 200 1st Ave NW #505 Hickory NC 28601 or via email eLearning@aded.net.  

ADED's Education Code of Conduct applies to this and all ADED education. 

Connection & Conversations 

April 20, 2026 9:00 - 9:45 AM ET | Registration closes at 5 PM ET on 4/17/2026

Complimentary Event - open to ADED Members who provide driver rehab services. 

After registration, go to the contents tab to submit a topic for discussion. Please note, submission will close 4/16/2026. 

Join us for an informal, unscripted session designed to spark meaningful conversation among driver rehabilitation specialists. Whether you’re seeking connection, clarity, or perspective, you’re not alone—many peers share the same successes, challenges, and frustrations.

Participants are encouraged to exchange practical tips, insights, and, most importantly, support one another on items related to driver rehab practice. Open to both newcomers and seasoned professionals, these discussions provide a space to ask questions, share experiences, and explore real-world challenges together.

If you’re looking for candid dialogue, spontaneous discussion, and a lecture-free environment, this is the place to be. Come ready to engage, collaborate, and benefit from shared experiences and peer-driven learning. No contact hours offered. 

Ontario Chapter Meeting April 17, 2026 9:00 AM - 1:15 PM ET | Live-Virtual, Online | 3 ADED Contact Hours | Members Only $30
All attendees will need to have their cameras ON for the duration of the event for attendance verification.
Deadline to register: April 10, 2026 5PM ET

Schedule (subject to change)

9:00 – 9:15 Business meeting (approval of minutes, MTO updates)
9:16 – 10:16 Presentation 1
10:17 – 10:30 Questions
10:31 – 10:35 Mini break
10:36 – 11:36 Presentation 2
11:37 – 11:52 Break
11:53 – 12:53 Presentation 3
12:54 – 1:05 Questions
1:06 – 1:15 Wrap up and Adjournment

Presentation 1
Assessment of fitness to drive among clients with compromised right leg or foot - Presenters: Wendy Nieuwland and Dr. Yu-Ting Chen

Several medical conditions affect drivers’ right leg or foot function to use the accelerator and brake pedals from original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). For example, incomplete spinal cord injury, stroke with right hemiplegia, multiple sclerosis, peripheral neuropathy, right leg or foot amputation. Some clients wear ankle-foot orthosis, a below knee or above knee prothesis to maintain functional walking, but their motor and sensory function to make fast and accurate use of vehicle pedals can be questionable. Furthermore, it is unclear whether left foot crossover strategies or bipedal driving are acceptable compensatory strategies for consideration of driving safety. The objective of this session is to empower occupational therapists using therapeutic reasoning in the assessment of fitness to drive among clients with compromised right leg or foot function. Session description. This session will have lectures, case studies, and discussions. The lecture will review updated national guidelines and research consensus on the assessments on drivers with right leg or foot impairments, the use of orthoses and prosthesis to drive, and left leg compensatory strategies to drive. While relevant research studies are still scarce, two cases will be presented to illustrate the therapeutic reasoning and clinical decision-making process in the assessment of fitness-to-drive based on real clinical experiences. The final recommendations of licensing conditions for these cases will be presented. The discussion will tackle the practical, psychological, and therapeutic challenges in assessing the fitness-to-drive of clients with compromised right leg or foot function. Presenters will draw conclusions from current available evidence and service reflections. Clinical implications. Occupational therapists often face challenges and dilemmas in assessing clients with compromised right leg or foot functioning. Three core concepts should be considered: a) occupational therapists should focus on assessing clients’ occupational performance rather than exclusive body functioning or vehicle type, b) driving safety can not be compromised and occupational therapists should not recommend any adaptive equipment or compensatory strategies that may not be safe to use, c) the importance of client-centered practice and respecting clients’ choices during the assessment process, under the circumstances that both parties are clear about the risks and benefits of the assessment results.

Learning Objectives:

• Analyze how much range or motion, muscle strength, coordination, and sensation are sufficient to drive with pedals from OEMs and if the type of vehicle matters.
• Determine if a client wearing an orthosis or prothesis is fit to drive OEM pedals.
• Discuss the use of left leg compensatory strategies and driving safety in fitness-to-drive assessment and training 

Presentation 2
From Evaluation to  Recommendation: A Clinical Framework for Mobility Solutions  - Presenter: Cassy Churchill, BraunAbility

This 1‑hour educational session is designed to support driver rehabilitation specialists and mobility evaluators in understanding key considerations when recommending mobility solutions for individuals with physical disabilities. Rather than focusing on specific products, the session emphasizes clinical decision‑making, evaluator responsibilities, and real‑world application through discussion and case‑based learning. Participants will explore the evaluator’s role in identifying client needs, understanding environmental and functional considerations, and collaborating effectively with mobility equipment dealers to support safe and appropriate mobility outcomes. The presentation will address common evaluation challenges, referral considerations, and how to navigate available resources during the recommendation process. Case examples will be used to illustrate how clinical findings, client goals, and contextual factors influence mobility recommendations. The session will also highlight best practices for interdisciplinary collaboration and how evaluators can access non‑promotional resources to support informed, client‑centered decision‑making. This program is educational in nature, needs‑based, and intended to enhance professional practice rather than promote specific products or demonstrations.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify key clinical and functional considerations that influence mobility recommendations for individuals with disabilities.
  
• Describe the role of the mobility dealer within the evaluation and referral process and how effective collaboration supports client outcomes.
• Apply case‑based reasoning to determine appropriate mobility considerations based on client needs, goals, and environmental factors.
• Recognize available educational and informational resources that support evaluators throughout the mobility recommendation process.

Presentation 3
Impact of Diabetes on Driving Safety - Presenters: Wendy Nieuwland and Dr. Yu-Ting Chen

Nearly 10% of Canadian adults have been diagnosed with diabetes, with one in four adults aged 65 years old or over affected. Longitudinal clinical records indicate that diabetes has become one of the most common complications among clients referred to medically functional driving assessments in recent years. Abnormal blood sugar levels can impair one’s consciousness, visual, neurological, psychomotor, cognitive and executive functioning – each of these may compromise driving safety. Occupational therapists (OTs) and driving instructors (DIs) working in driver’s rehabilitation must recognize these potential risks and provide evidence-based, non-maleficence practice within the scope of practice. Session description. This session will introduce current scientific evidence on the impact of diabetes on driving safety and identify high-risk subgroups of drivers with diabetes. It will present evidence-based clinical assessment strategies that evaluate clients’ subjective awareness of glucose control, diabetes self-management and self-care abilities, and the objective effects of diabetes on driving-related functional abilities. Presenters will explain how to interpret glucose data from the three most commonly used blood sugar monitoring devices in Canada. OTs and DIs are encouraged to verify clients’ glucose levels and monitor signs of abnormal blood sugar levels before and during on-road evaluations and training sessions. Clinical decision making about when a driving session should be postponed or terminated will be discussed using a case study, supported by national and international guidelines on fitness-to-drive assessments and licensing regulations for drivers with diabetes. Standard emergency responses to hypoglycemia conditions will be reviewed. This session will conclude with a discussion on how to provide client-centered education and consultation regarding the impact of diabetes on driving safety. Clinical implications. Diabetes is one of the most prevalent chronic conditions in Canada and could impact one’s fitness-to-drive in various functional abilities. OTs should collect and document information regarding clients’ daily and weekly glucose level, driving routine, and functional abilities for assessing their driving performance, influenced by this condition. Clients’ glucose level before and during any on-road sessions should be monitored. OTs should use scientific evidence and national guidelines to make licensing recommendations and provide necessary client education to prevent any foreseeable adverse events. 

Learning Objectives:

• The clinical interview should evaluate clients’ awareness of self-management of diabetes and the impact of diabetes on driving-related functional abilities.
• Interpret daily glucose levels and long-term trends on three most common blood sugar monitoring devices and determine when it is not appropriate to proceed on-road assessments or training sessions following national guidelines. 
• Provide client-centered education about diabetes self-management regarding driving safety and know when to refer for additional diabetic education post assessment to promote driving longevity. 

Attendance at the entire event is required to earn contact hours, no partial hours are awarded. Registration confirmation and payment receipts are e-mailed to the attendee. All cancellations for live-virtual events must be made in writing to the ADED Executive Office by 4/10/2026; a 20% handling fee will be charged. Refunds will not be issued after this date or for “no-shows.” Partial refunds will not be granted. ADED reserves the right to modify content, timetable, change speakers, or cancel events due to unforeseen/unavoidable circumstances at any time. If ADED cancels an event, a full refund will be provided to registrants. ADED does not offer refunds because of technological issues, should the ADED experience a platform outage, attendees will be provided an appropriate credit.  All complaints relative to the content, instructor, and registration procedures are to be directed to the ADED executive office: 200 1st Ave NW #505 Hickory NC 28601 or via email eLearning@aded.net.  

ADED's Education Code of Conduct applies to this and all ADED education. 

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