How Occupational Therapists Can Help with Car Transfers

Keeping You Connected to the Places That Matter

For many older adults, a car represents much more than transport. It provides independence, access to medical appointments, social outings, shopping trips, and time with family and friends. However, as we age, getting in and out of a car can become increasingly difficult due to arthritis, reduced flexibility, balance issues, pain, weakness, or fatigue. Something as simple as stepping into a vehicle can suddenly feel like a daily challenge. 

Occupational therapists (OTs) help identify why car transfers have become difficult and find practical solutions to make them safer and easier. Through an assessment of the person, the vehicle, and the task itself, we look at factors such as joint movement, balance, strength, pain, mobility aids, and vehicle height. Research has shown that occupational therapy interventions, including task modification, assistive equipment, and environmental adaptations, can help older adults maintain independence and participation in important daily activities. Sometimes a small adjustment can make a significant difference to confidence and safety. 

The Right Strategy for the Right Vehicle

Not every car or person is the same, which is why a personalised assessment is so important. 

Some common OT recommendations include: 

• Using a swivel cushion to reduce twisting during transfers. 

• Using a handy bar or transfer handle for additional support. 

• Adjusting seat position and backrest angle before transfers. 

• Trialling techniques to reduce strain on painful hips, knees, or backs. 

• Practising safer ways to manage walkers and mobility aids when travelling. 

• Exploring vehicle modifications where appropriate. 

• Considering alternative vehicle types if changes in mobility make transfers difficult. 

• Assessing whether mobility equipment can safely fit into the vehicle. 

An OT will often assess transfers in real-world situations rather than relying on assumptions. This may include evaluating how you enter and exit your own vehicle, where you park, whether you have enough room to open the door, and how you manage equipment such as walkers, four-wheeled walkers, wheelchairs, or mobility scooters. 

Staying Independent on the Road Ahead 

Difficulties with car transfers don’t necessarily mean giving up driving or community outings. In many cases, the right equipment, technique, or vehicle setup can help people continue travelling safely and comfortably. An OT can also assist with identifying equipment suppliers, trialling products, and navigating funding pathways that may support vehicle-related assistive technology. 

The goal isn’t simply to get in and out of the car. It’s about maintaining access to the people, places, and activities that make life meaningful. Whether it’s attending a medical appointment, meeting friends for coffee, or visiting grandchildren, safe car transfers help keep you connected to your community and your independence. 

Research by Stark and colleagues found that occupation-focused interventions, environmental modifications, and assistive equipment can improve participation and independence for older adults living in the community. This highlights the value of assessing everyday activities, such as car transfers, and finding tailored solutions that support ongoing engagement in daily life. 

Reference
Stark, S., Keglovits, M., Arbesman, M., & Lieberman, D. (2017). Occupational therapy interventions for community-dwelling older adults: A systematic review. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 71(5), 7105180010p1-7105180010p11. 

“The best car transfer technique is the one that keeps you safe, comfortable, and able to continue getting where you want to go.” 🚗