Driving precautions for people with Alzheimer's disease or other dementia

Whether a person with Alzheimer's disease or another dementia should still be allowed to drive is a common dilemma faced by people with the disease and their caregivers. Taking away driving privileges may reduce the person's sense of independence and increase dependence on family and friends. But it is extremely important to prevent the person from driving when it is no longer safe.

The American Academy of Neurology recently developed guidelines on driving and Alzheimer's disease. The academy recommends that people not drive if they have even mild Alzheimer's disease-when memory loss is noticeable and complex activities are impaired.

A diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease or another dementia does not mean that the person needs to stop driving immediately. The academy recommends that people in the very early stages have their driving performance checked to make sure they can drive safely. Also, their health professionals should reassess their condition every 6 months because the disease is likely to progress. Family members can help detect changes in the person's ability to drive by riding along when the person is driving.

In addition to adequate vision, hearing, and coordination, safe driving requires the ability to:

• Make quick decisions.
• Use good judgment.
• Remember the rules of the road.

These abilities decline at different rates in different people with dementia, so it is important to monitor changes in ability to continue driving. It often is up to family members or other caregivers to watch for signs that the person should not be driving anymore. The family doctor may also be able to offer some guidance on whether the person is able to drive safely.

Some people may become angry or depressed when they are told they can no longer drive. They may try to get access to the car anyway. If you are the caregiver, you may need to hide the car keys or park the car in a different location. Be sure to arrange other options for transportation so that the person does not feel cut off from activities that take place outside the home.