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Description
The goal of this capstone project was to create a simulated traffic stop event for neurodiverse drivers to decrease anxieties and promote positive interactions with local law enforcement. This project was completed under the ACOTE standards of project development and clinical skills, and in collaboration with the University of Kentucky Driving Rehabilitation Program and a Certified Driving Rehabilitation Specialist. Previous simulated traffic stops have been completed specifically for the ASD population and showed improvements in anxiety and understanding of traffic stops. Additionally, resources like the Blue Envelope Program have been implemented across the country to allow for interactions between autistic drivers and law enforcement during a traffic stop. There were a lack of studies that discussed the benefits of a simulated traffic stop for the greater neurodiverse community and resources similar to the Blue Envelope Program within the central Kentucky area. The goals of this project were to develop a simulated traffic stop experience for the neurodiverse population, create home exercise programs (HEPs) for use at the event and to provide for future driving students, and bring more awareness to items that allow for increased communication between drivers and law enforcement.
To complete this project, three objectives were used as a guide that related to creating HEPs, meeting with community members, and planning and developing the event. This event was completed twice within the central Kentucky area and targeted the larger neurodiverse community by creating safe interactions with law enforcement to prepare attendees for future situations. This addressed the gap between this population and needs of the area. This event was important to OS/OT as OT practitioners must address community mobility/driving and advocacy for clients for occupational justice within the intervention process. This project strengthened my skills relating to leadership, project development, time management, and collaboration with members of the community.
Graduation Date
2026
Keywords
driver rehabilitation, OTD capstone, occupational therapy, occupational science
Disciplines
Occupational Therapy
Degree Type
Book
Site Mentor
Michele W. Coffey, OT/L, CDRS
Comments
Link to poster: https://youtu.be/Jw9Y8Wnz13g