Stroke

• is medically referred to as a cerebral vascular accident (CVA)
• is the sudden or gradual onset of neurological symptoms caused by a diminished supply of blood to the brain. This can be a result of a lack of blood supply (ischemia ) caused either by an embolus (blockage of an artery) or thrombosis (blood clot) or an accumulation of blood within the skull (thrombosis)
• most commonly occurs after the age of 65
• can range from small strokes called transient ischemic attacks (TIA), in which symptoms are reversible to major strokes, in which symptoms may be permanent

Potential Deficit Areas

• Area(s) of deficits and severity of symptoms depend on the type and location of the stroke
• Impaired movement and function effecting one side of the body (hemiplegia or hemiparesis)
• Visual and perceptual deficits
• Impaired sensation
• Impaired cognitive ability
• Emotional or behavioral changes
• Speech and swallowing problems

Impact on Driving/Transportation

• A modified vehicle, wheelchair lift or transfer seat may be needed for a person who now requires a scooter or wheelchair for mobility or has difficulty transferring into an unmodified vehicle
• A driving evaluation will be needed to determine if the person has the cognitive, visual, perceptual and physical ability to return to driving or learn to drive safely. (www.aded.net)
• This driving evaluation will determine if the individual will be able to drive or not and what if any type(s), of driving equipment they he/she need.

Possible Vehicle Equipment Needs

• Wheelchair stowage lift and/or transfer seat
• Lowered floor minivan or full size van with a lift
• Adaptive driving equipment specifically recommended for their individual physical abilities and custom fit by a certified technician
• Equipment will vary widely person to person