Can or should a person with dementia continue to drive?
The issue of driving a car is often a topic of much heated debate among family members after a diagnosis of dementia is made. Driving is a significant symbol of independence that many people are not willing to give up. Safety for self and others needs to be the primary concern when considering continued driving after a diagnosis of dementia. During the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease, a person may be able to make the independent decision to discontinue their driving. Later on, as the disease progresses and cognitive abilities decline, the individual should not be driving. A physician may be needed to encourage the individual to stop and may write a “Do Not Drive” prescription. If there are any questions or doubts regarding an individual’s driving abilities, a driving assessment test would be a valid recommendation.
