While some people with dementia can keep driving through the early stages of the disease, the condition will eventually cause authorities to revoke the privilege. Driving in the advanced stages of dementia can lead to catastrophic results, including fatal car accidents.
Many people take driving for granted, recognizing it as a standard part of the day. But what happens when a dementia diagnosis threatens safe driving skills? Unfortunately, dementia will usually lead to the revocation of a patient’s driving privileges, forcing them into a difficult transition.
If your loved one has been diagnosed with dementia, it’s crucial to recognize and understand the warning signs, what the diagnosis means for their driving privileges, and how to support them through the tumultuous shift.
How Does Dementia Affect Driving?
Dementia is the loss of memory, language, problem-solving, and other cognitive abilities. It doesn’t refer to a singular disease but is a broad term encompassing various medical conditions, including Alzheimer’s.
Multiple types of dementia are progressive and gradually worsen over time. While individuals may still drive safely in the early stages of dementia, doing so becomes more of a risk as it progresses.
The disease can affect insight and judgment, potentially creating a dangerous driving situation. It can also lead to mood and personality changes, making reactions more pronounced. This may lead to more erratic or aggressive behavior behind the wheel.
Dementia and Driving Laws
Dementia and driving laws vary from state to state. In some states, individuals with dementia must report the diagnosis to the proper officials, such as the state Department of Motor Vehicles or the Department of Transportation, which may result in the loss of the license.
In many states, no explicit laws prevent individuals with dementia from driving. For example, in West Virginia, there are no laws against driving with dementia. However, doctors, law enforcement, and immediate family can report concerns of an unsafe driver to the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles, which will trigger an investigation by the Medical Review Unit. This may result in the loss of driving privileges.
When Should Someone with Dementia or Alzheimer’s Stop Driving?
It can be challenging for some people to recognize it is time to stop driving because of safety issues. If your loved one has been diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer’s, you may want to observe their driving skills or watch for signs indicating it’s no longer safe to drive.
Signs may include the following:
- Showing signs of unsafe driving
- Health issues that may impair safe driving, including vision, hearing, and movement complications
- Anxiety about driving
- Recommendations from a doctor to modify or cease driving habits
- Spikes in car insurance premiums due to driving issues
- Comments from family, friends, and neighbors about unsafe, erratic, or aggressive driving
- Two or more traffic tickets or warnings within the past two years
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