Driving
A diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease does not automatically
mean that a person is incapable of driving. Some people
remain capable for some time, depending on the timing of
the diagnosis and the rate the disease progresses.
The disease creates a loss of orientation, judgment and
visual spatial difficulties that may, if the person drives,
place the person and the general public at risk. Eventually
a person with the disease must stop driving, as it will
no longer be safe.
Throughout
the course of the disease, the person's
driving ability needs to be self-monitored and assessed
by family members, a doctor or other health-care professional.
Signs that driving abilities are declining:
- traffic violations
- collisions
- taking too much time to reach a destination
- not reaching the destination at all
- slow response times.
Restricting
or stopping driving may threaten a person's
independence and sense of freedom. Discussing the situation
openly in a trusting environment may help the person accept
the loss more easily.
Read
our expanded discussion on the tough
issue of driving.
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