 |
|
A License to Drive with ADHD
November 04, 2008If your teen can't pass a driver's test, it might not mean more time in driver's ed is needed. It might be due to ADHD.
Researchers from Tel Aviv University caution that ADHD, an attention deficit disorder common in teens, is a serious driver's disability. To alleviate the problem, and to decrease ADHD-related road accidents and fatalities, Tel Aviv University has developed a new driver's training program in collaboration with occupational therapy departments in affiliated Israeli hospitals. Connecting their own clinical research to advances in occupational therapy, TAU researchers have merged the two disciplines in a novel approach to treat drivers, old and young, with ADHD.
Speaking from Experience
Leading the new initiative is Dr. Navah Ratzon from TAU's Department of Occupational Therapy. "There is no doubt in my mind," says Dr. Ratzon, "that ADHD interferes with one's ability to drive safely.
"The youth who fail their drivers' tests over and over may be suffering from ADHD. Even if they eventually pass these tests, they're still more likely than others to become involved in car accidents."
Dr. Ratzon would know. She's a mother of five who has a challenged ADHD driver at home. "One of my children suffers from ADHD. She's a good driver technically but has done the most damage to my car," says Dr. Ratzon. Responding to this need in her own family, she devised a straightforward therapist-supervised approach to re-training ADHD teens on how to drive. Her approach could save lives.
Get Treatment Before Getting Behind the Wheel
Many cases of ADHD remain undiagnosed. If you suspect that your teen may be one of the hundreds of thousands of youngsters with the condition, Dr. Razton suggests you take your child for evaluation by a specialist at a driving rehabilitation center before you let him or her get behind the wheel.
Using customized state-of-the-art tools, Dr. Ratzon and her colleagues at the Tel Aviv University-affiliated Rabin Medical Center have developed therapeutic guidelines for occupational therapists to follow. One way the TAU specialists "re-train" ADHD drivers is by creating "a systematic screening of the visual field." Part of this screening includes a checklist of things every ADHD driver must do when driving. While these activities may come naturally to others, ADHD drivers need to remind themselves when to look at their mirrors or check for hazards on the road. This checklist helps keep the driver's mind on the road, says Dr. Ratzon.
While most teens outgrow ADHD by their early twenties, the disorder can persist into old age. "While there are very few articles on ADHD and driving," says Dr. Ratzon, "new research indicates that ADHD doesn't really go away. People continue to suffer from its symptoms. Even those old enough to be grandparents can benefit from our new driver's training program."
Medication and Timing Help
Before drivers' therapy, Tel Aviv University clinicians first recommend that those that have been diagnosed with ADHD take medication prescribed to them. Studies in America have shown that ADHD teens who take Ritalin or similar prescribed medications drive much more safely than those who don't.
It is also important, Dr. Ratzon notes, that an ADHD teen learns which hours and circumstances are better for driving. Some ADHD drivers function better during long drives on country roads, where there are fewer distractions, rather than on short drives through the city. Some may drive better at night than during the day, says Prof. Ratzon. These preferences can be determined with the help of a driving rehabilitation center.
American Friends of Tel Aviv University
Leading the new initiative is Dr. Navah Ratzon from TAU's Department of Occupational Therapy. "There is no doubt in my mind," says Dr. Ratzon, "that ADHD interferes with one's ability to drive safely.
"The youth who fail their drivers' tests over and over may be suffering from ADHD. Even if they eventually pass these tests, they're still more likely than others to become involved in car accidents."
Dr. Ratzon would know. She's a mother of five who has a challenged ADHD driver at home. "One of my children suffers from ADHD. She's a good driver technically but has done the most damage to my car," says Dr. Ratzon. Responding to this need in her own family, she devised a straightforward therapist-supervised approach to re-training ADHD teens on how to drive. Her approach could save lives.
Get Treatment Before Getting Behind the Wheel
Many cases of ADHD remain undiagnosed. If you suspect that your teen may be one of the hundreds of thousands of youngsters with the condition, Dr. Razton suggests you take your child for evaluation by a specialist at a driving rehabilitation center before you let him or her get behind the wheel.
Using customized state-of-the-art tools, Dr. Ratzon and her colleagues at the Tel Aviv University-affiliated Rabin Medical Center have developed therapeutic guidelines for occupational therapists to follow. One way the TAU specialists "re-train" ADHD drivers is by creating "a systematic screening of the visual field." Part of this screening includes a checklist of things every ADHD driver must do when driving. While these activities may come naturally to others, ADHD drivers need to remind themselves when to look at their mirrors or check for hazards on the road. This checklist helps keep the driver's mind on the road, says Dr. Ratzon.
While most teens outgrow ADHD by their early twenties, the disorder can persist into old age. "While there are very few articles on ADHD and driving," says Dr. Ratzon, "new research indicates that ADHD doesn't really go away. People continue to suffer from its symptoms. Even those old enough to be grandparents can benefit from our new driver's training program."
Medication and Timing Help
Before drivers' therapy, Tel Aviv University clinicians first recommend that those that have been diagnosed with ADHD take medication prescribed to them. Studies in America have shown that ADHD teens who take Ritalin or similar prescribed medications drive much more safely than those who don't.
It is also important, Dr. Ratzon notes, that an ADHD teen learns which hours and circumstances are better for driving. Some ADHD drivers function better during long drives on country roads, where there are fewer distractions, rather than on short drives through the city. Some may drive better at night than during the day, says Prof. Ratzon. These preferences can be determined with the help of a driving rehabilitation center.
American Friends of Tel Aviv University
ADHD Current Events and ADHD News RSSExposure to lead, tobacco smoke raises risk of ADHD
Children exposed prenatally to tobacco smoke and during childhood to lead face a particularly high risk for ADHD, according to research done at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center.
Common plastics chemicals linked to ADHD symptoms
Phthalates are important components of many consumer products, including toys, cleaning materials, plastics, and personal care items.
Pivotal study for PSD502 -- the first potential treatment for premature ejaculation
At the annual meeting of the Sexual Medicine Society of North America (SMSNA), Inc. in San Diego, Sciele Pharma, Inc., a Shionogi Company and Plethora Solutions Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Plethora Solutions Holdings PLC ("Plethora" - AIM:PLE)., today presented data from its second positive pivotal study of PSD502 for the treatment of premature ejaculation (PE).
Teens' mental health affects how long they stay in school, new study shows
Queen's University researcher Steven Lehrer has won a prestigious international award in recognition of his contributions to health economics.
Faulty body clock may make kids bipolar
Malfunctioning circadian clock genes may be responsible for bipolar disorder in children. Researchers writing in the open access journal BMC Psychiatry found four versions of the regulatory gene RORB that were associated with pediatric bipolar disorder.
Language support is important for children with autism
Teachers and parents must be vigilant in observing difficulties with language comprehension, reading and spelling in children and young people with autism, Asperger's syndrome and ADHD.
Experts unveil new CVD guidelines and position papers
Several new guidelines and position papers offering the most up to date information to ensure that clinicians practice evidence-based medicine were released at the Canadian Cardiovascular Congress 2009 this week.
Eating liquorice in pregnancy may affect a child's IQ and behavior
Expectant mothers who eat excessive quantities of liquorice during pregnancy could adversely affect their child's intelligence and behaviour, a study has shown.
Are the monoamines involved in shaping conduct disorders?
Antisocial and aggressive behaviours represent a widespread and expensive social problem. Recent research has convincingly shown that there is a strong interaction between genetic inheritance and environment for development of personality and behaviour.
Vyvanse CII significantly improved ADHD symptoms for children 13 hours after administration
Shire plc (LSE: SHP, NASDAQ: SHPGY), the global specialty biopharmaceutical company, today announced that a study published online in the peer-reviewed journal Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health found once-daily Vyvanse® (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate) CII significantly reduced the symptoms of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children aged 6 to 12 from the first time point measured (1.5 hours) up to the last time point assessed (13 hours) after administration.
More ADHD Current Events and ADHD News Articles
 |
The Survival Guide for Kids with ADD or ADHD by John F. Taylor Ph.D. (Author) What are ADD and ADHD? What does it mean to have ADD and ADHD? How can kids diagnosed with ADD and ADHD help themselves succeed in school, get along better at home, and form healthy, enjoyable relationships with peers? In kid-friendly language and a format that welcomes reluctant and easily distracted readers, Free Spirit's newest survival guide helps kids know they're not alone and offers practical strategies for taking care of oneself, modifying behavior, enjoying school, having fun, and dealing (when needed) with doctors, counselors, and medication. Includes real-life scenarios, quizzes, and a special message for parents. |
 |
Parenting Children With Adhd: 10 Lessons That Medicine Cannot Teach (APA Lifetools) by Vincent J., Ph.D. Monastra (Author) Kids with ADHD need to be loved and shown how to become successful adults. Unfortunately, their lack of attention and restlessness often get in the way. Parents of these kids try so hard to stay connected and remain patient in the face of daily frustration. However, it is an incredible challenge to remain positive and involved when your child does not respond to the kinds of strategies that work for other children. Without guidance and systematic treatment, these bright, inquisitive children are unlikely to graduate from high school, are more prone to use illegal drugs, and struggle to maintain employment as adults. Parenting Children with ADHD: Lessons That Medicine Cannot Teach gives parents a framework for building a successful parenting program at home. Drawing from his experiences in... |
 |
Dr. Bob's Guide to Stop ADHD in 18 Days by Robert DeMaria (Author) This how-to guide can rid children and families off medications and detrimental foods - junk foods loaded with sugar, preservatives, dairy products, and trans- fattyacids - so that children and families can enjoy optimal health. "This user-friendly book has the potential of setting families free from the nightmare of ADD, ADHD, and ODD. Using drugs on kids isn't solving the problem. Follow Dr. Bob's directions and witness the change is can bring to you and your loved ones." Bruce West, D.C. Publisher, Health Alert |
 |
Taking Charge of ADHD: The Complete, Authoritative Guide for Parents (Revised Edition) by Russell A. Barkley PhD ABPP ABCN (Author) A treasured parent resource since its publication, Taking Charge of ADHD has now been revised and updated to incorporate the most current information on ADHD and its treatment. From internationally renowned ADHD expert Russell A. Barkley, the book empowers parents by arming them with the up-to-date knowledge, expert guidance, and confidence they need to ensure that their child receives the best care possible. Features of the revised edition include: *A step-by-step plan for behavior management that has helped thousands of children with ADHD *Hard data that clear up current controversies about increased diagnosis and stimulant use *New strategies that give children greater chances of success at school and in social situations *Advances in genetic and neurological research... |
 |
How To Reach And Teach Children with ADD/ADHD: Practical Techniques, Strategies, and Interventions (J-B Ed: Reach and Teach) by Sandra F. Rief M.A. (Author) Sandra Rief offers myriad real-life case studies, interviews, and student intervention plans for children with ADD/ADHD. In addition, the book contains best teaching practices and countless strategies for enhancing classroom performance for all types of students. This invaluable resource offers proven suggestions for: Engaging students' attention and active participation Keeping students on-task and productive Preventing and managing behavioral problems in the classroom Differentiating instruction and addressing students' diverse learning styles Building a partnership with parents and much more. |
 |
Learning To Slow Down & Pay Attention: A Book for Kids About Adhd by Kathleen G. Nadeau (Author), Ellen B. Dixon (Author), Charles Beyl (Author) - An APA Bestseller-over 25,000 copies sold! This book is designed as the perfect learning tool to help parents guide their child as he or she confronts the challenges of ADHD. Learning to Slow Down is unique because it is kid-centered, written from the child's point of view. This updated edition includes easy-to-read text, fun cartoons, and activities, as well as loads of self-help tips for coping with friends, family, and schoolwork, getting organized, getting disciplined, and getting things done. Appropriate for ages 6-11. Full-color illustrations. |
 |
The Gift of ADHD Activity Book: 101 Ways to Turn Your Child's Problems into Strengths (Companion) by Lara, Ph.D. Honos-Webb (Author) The chapters of the book are organized by strengths that can be developed in a child. There is a short discussion of the importance of each strength, and then the book offers simple activities that parents do with their child-often in just a few minutes-to help develop them. Throughout the book strikes a positive note, stressing things that parents can do themselves to encourage and support their child rather than things they should discourage or avoid. |
 |
Driven To Distraction : Recognizing and Coping with Attention Deficit Disorder from Childhood Through Adulthood by Edward M. Hallowell (Author), John J. Ratey (Author) Through vivid stories of the experiences of their patients (both adults and children), Drs. Hallowell and Ratey show the varied forms ADD takes -- from the hyperactive search for high stimulation to the floating inattention of daydreaming -- and the transforming impact of precise diagnosis and treatment. |
 |
ADHD & Me: What I Learned from Lighting Fires at the Dinner Table by Blake E. S. Taylor (Author) Blake Taylor's memoir, written when he was 17, offers, for the first time, a young person's account of what it's like to live and grow up with this common condition. Join Blake as he foils bullies, confronts unfair teachers, struggles with distraction and disorganization on exams, and goes sailing out-of-bounds and ends up with a boatload of spiders. It will be an inspiration and companion to the millions of others like him who must find a way to thrive with a different perspective than many of us. The book features an introduction by psychologist Lara Honos-Webb, author of The Gift of ADHD, and a leading advocate for kids with ADHD. Blake's mother first suspected he had ADHD when he, at only three years of age, tried to push his infant sister in her carrier off the... |
 |
New Best Selling Vaxa Homeopathy Attend for Add Adhd by Vaxa The Reticular Activating System and its connections. At the center of consciousness, attention and learning. The Reticular Activating System appears to be intimately involved in the neural mechanisms which produce consciousness and focused attention, receiving impulses from the spinal cord and relaying them to the Thalamus, and from there to the Cortex, and back again in a feedback loop to the Hippocampus/Thalamus/ Hypothalamus and participating neural structures in order for learning and memory to take place. Without continual excitation of cortical neurons by reticular activation impulses, an individual is unconscious and cannot be aroused. When stimulation is enough for consciousness but not for attentiveness, ADD or LD results. If too activated, an individual cannot relax or... |
| © 2009 BrightSurf.com |