IU Occupational Therapy Doctorate Students’ Perceived Experiences on CarFit Training

Abstract

This paper describes the Doctoral Capstone Experience (DCE) by providing an overview of a comprehensive initiative focused on integrating CarFit training into the Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) curriculum at Indiana University. CarFit is a program designed to optimize vehicle safety features and enhance driver comfort, for older adults, addressing the pressing concerns surrounding their increased vulnerability to injuries while driving. This initiative stems from the recognition of occupational therapists’ role in promoting older adult driver safety and aligns with the IU OTD program's mission of socially responsive healthcare, leadership, and advocacy. The project aims to equip second year OTD students with the necessary skills and knowledge to participate in CarFit events, assess older adult drivers' needs, and provide personalized recommendations to enhance their driving experience. Evaluation methods include a post-survey to assess students' perceptions and learning outcomes. Results from the post-survey indicate students provided high responses in areas associated with CarFit being beneficial to the older adult population, understanding the purpose of CarFit, real life experiences increasing their confidence as a therapist, and CarFit being beneficial to receive certifications while in school. There were more neutral results towards continued CarFit education and event participation. With the overall results of the capstone indicating favorable outcomes for CarFit within the curriculum. The completion of this project resulted in CarFit being added to the curriculum in the Older Adults class for the upcoming year, 2025.