Jun 11, 2008 10:00 AM CST

When It's Time to Stop Driving

Driving and Alzheimer’s can be a very dangerous situation. At some point, a person with Alzheimer’s or dementia will have to stop driving. It is usually better to stop sooner than later. It is very rare for a person with Alzheimer’s to voluntarily give up there keys. This decision usually falls on the caregiver and can be a very hard process. Here are some tips that may be helpful while going through this transition.

· Keep a written record of any changes in your loved one’s driving behavior.

· Contact the state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to request that your loved one take a driver’s test.

· Talk to your doctor and have them report your loved one’s condition to the DMV.

· Let your loved one know that they can not drive anymore. Remember, however, that Alzheimer’s can rob a person of their ability to reason to don’t spend too much time on explanation. A short statement may be best.

· Driving is a symbol of independence. When your loved one is no longer able to drive they may need some time to grieve. Allow them this time and acknowledge the emotions your loved one is feeling.

· When your loved one asks to drive, try not to tell them “no” right away. Instead tell them that you would like to drive, you’re taking a new route, offer to drive them so that they can rest or tell them that the doctor doesn’t recommend driving because of another illness such as a heart condition.

· Park the car where your loved one can’t see it. Hide the keys, and if the person enjoys having their own set of keys, provide a substitute set that doesn’t work. Like the old saying goes, out of sight out of mind.

· Make the car more difficult to start by disconnecting the battery or have a mechanic install a kill switch which must be deactivated in order for the car to start.

· If you have a particular place that you always take the car for repairs make sure to alert them about your loved ones condition.

· Substitute a photo identification card for a driver’s license. These are available through the DMV.

· Also, remember that as your loved one’s disease progresses they will be less likely to want to leave the safety of home.