


Healthcare professionals may be more likely to discuss driving issues with a patient if a caregiver has met with him or her privately and shared observations of driving behavior. This input can help because physicians do not have tests to determine definitively when a person in the early stages of dementia should not drive. And some doctors may hesitate to bring up a topic as emotionally charged as not driving for fear of jeopardizing their relationship with a patient.
Doctors may request that a patient not drive for a period of time while trying new medication that may produce drowsiness. When a physician is concerned about someone's driving safety, writing a prescription to stop driving may give added weight.Lawyers, financial planners and care managers may be in a position to raise questions about driving safety. Caregivers can enlist their assistance by asking them to mention the subject as part of planning. Alzheimer's support groups offer opportunities for caregivers and persons with dementia to share concerns and explore options.

This guidebook helps families determine when it's time for loved ones with dementia to stop driving and helps them cope with driving cessation.

This guidebook describes the benefits of having a comprehensive driving evaluation from an occupational therapist with specialized driver evaluation training.
Take our true/false quiz to test your knowledge about safe driving for a lifetime.