Dementia affects people’s short and long term memory. The ability to perform common tasks that they were used to doing is inhibited.
Driving is one such task. Losing the ability to drive can be devastating for the dementia patient. Getting a driver’s license was a rite of passage and a sign of freedom and independence for him or her, so to lose the ability to drive can deal a heavy blow. We are going to provide some guidance in helping you to ease this blow for your loved one.
Talk about things openly
The first signs of dementia or Alzheimer’s don’t have to mean the immediate loss of their car keys. Instead gather the family together to discuss the issue. Discuss the gravity of driving with dementia. Get him or her to come to an agreement that if they can drive safely they will be allowed to continue to drive, but once they are no longer able to do so, they will need to surrender the car keys. You or another family member or a professional will periodically need to assess your loved one’s continued ability to drive.
While they are still in the driver’s seat it would be wise to ensure that they have a GPS system in the car to aid them in reaching their destinations without getting lost and an easy-to-use cell phone in case of emergencies.
Decrease driving time. Decrease risks.
To help you feel more at ease while allowing them to maintain their independence, it might be a good idea to reduce the amount of time they must spend driving. This can be accomplished by using a pharmacy that delivers or ordering their prescriptions through a mail order service, having groceries delivered or utilizing a meal service or meals on wheels to cut down on grocery store visits, and shopping online for clothing and household items to help eliminate the need for trips to the mall or department stores.
Have a plan
Having a plan already in place for when the time comes to take the keys is critical for a smooth transition. Coordinate a network of family members, friends, and neighbors who are able and willing to provide transportation for your loved one when necessary.
You can schedule days and times of availability or simply have a list of people that can be called upon as needed. Plan for alternate modes of transportation as well for those times when no one from the network is available. These alternates could include a taxi service, special transportation services, or hiring a paid caregiver whose duties would include transportation.
When the time comes for your loved one to stop driving, we hope that these suggestions make it an easier step for them and you.
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