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Driving Safety and Alzheimer's Disease

In the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia, some people are able to continue driving. However, as their memory and decision-making skills get worse, at some point it will no longer be safe for them to be behind the wheel. 

When should someone with dementia stop driving?

People with dementia often do not realize they are having driving problems. Family members and friends will need to carefully observe the person’s driving for signs that it’s no longer safe for them to drive, such as fender benders or forgetting how to find familiar places like the grocery store or even home.

Signs that someone with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia should stop driving include:

Some people with dementia decide on their own not to drive, while others do not want to give up driving. Consider planning ahead, before the signs of unsafe driving appear, for how you will approach the situation. You can talk about other transportation options and how the person can continue the activities they enjoy.

Evaluating driving skills

Friends and family members are often first to notice the signs of unsafe driving. Another way to evaluate driving skills is to have the person’s driving skills assessed by a professional. The American Occupational Therapy Association maintains a national database of driving specialists, or you can check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles or a health care professional to recommend someone who can evaluate driving skills. Note that there may be fees associated with these types of assessments. There are also a number of online resources for assessing driving skills yourself.

What are the laws about dementia and driving?

State laws vary regarding when a person with Alzheimer’s should stop driving. Some states will automatically revoke a license when a person is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Other states may offer the chance for a diagnosed person to take and pass a driving test.

Many states require retaking a driving test when there is reason to believe someone may be unable to safely operate their vehicle. Information on unsafe driving can come from law enforcement, medical personnel, concerned citizens, and family members. Check with your state’s department of motor vehicles for more information.

What to do when driving becomes unsafe

If you notice unsafe driving, you will need to take steps to keep the person from driving. It is always a tough conversation, and it’s important to do it in a caring way. Try to understand how unhappy they may be to admit they have reached this new stage.

Here are some ways to help stop people with Alzheimer’s from driving:

Finding other transportation options

Losing the ability to drive can be difficult, but driving is only one form of transportation. Consider finding other ways that the person with Alzheimer’s can travel safely on their own.

Your local Area Agency on Aging can help you find local services that may include free or low-cost buses, taxis, or carpools for older people. Call 800-677-1116 or search the Eldercare Locator online. You also can try searching Rides in Sight or calling 855-607-4337, a service of the nonprofit ITN America that provides information about transportation options for older adults.

Some churches and community groups have volunteers who take older adults where they want to go. Family and friends are another great resource.

Source: National Institute on Aging

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