Form, function and meaning of car driving in a group of community-dwelling older adults in Santiago, Chile.

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this research was to inquire on characteristics of form, function and meaning of car driving in a group of community dwelling older adults in the city of Santiago de Chile, in 2011, from their perspectives and experiences. Methods: Qualitative in-depth interviews were carried out to seven participants; then information was analyzed using a grounded theory approach using constant comparison, and generating categories with main findings / themes. Results: Within the study group, car driving had a form conditioned by factors associable to aging such as visual, perceptual and cognitive declining, and by the social and physical context. Function of car driving emerged mainly as a facilitator of instrumental activities of daily living and leisure; and the meaning of the activity was probably the most important component, since car driving was perceived by the group as a priority and fundamental activity as it enabled independence, autonomy and biographical continuity by maintenance of significant roles. Conclusions: This study positions car driving as an occupation whose form, function and meaning, would contribute significantly to wellbeing and quality of life of older adults. Clinical implications for occupational therapy practice are also discussed.