Development of evidence-based guidelines for driving-related functional assessments of older drivers in Korea

Introduction: The aim was to develop evidence-based guidelines for assessing driving-related functions in older drivers in Korea, thereby supporting early screening of functional decline and promoting safe driving. Methods: The study’s methodology was guided by the Royal College of Occupational Therapists Evidence-Based Guideline Development Manual ( 5th edition ). Relevant research was systematically reviewed, critically appraised, and synthesised to extract practice-oriented recommendations. The Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) Evidence to Decision framework was applied to assess the applicability and strength of each recommendation. Feedback from older drivers, family members, and peer reviewers informed revisions of the draft guidelines. Results: The finalised guidelines include 17 recommendations addressing how driving-related functional assessments should be conducted and implemented in practice, including the use of validated functional measures. Reflecting Korea’s community-based service structure, they encourage multidisciplinary use and support the screening of high-risk groups through evidence-based assessment. Conclusion: These guidelines provide a practical framework for function-based assessment, supporting early screening, structured service linkage, and multidisciplinary collaboration, and may inform clinical practice and policy development for older driver safety in Korea.