Page 21 - Leisure Living Magazine Autumn 2017

Driving And
Alzheimer’s Disease
By Theresa Bowen, Ph.D., Email - theesajb@gmail.com
An early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease is not necessarily a reason for a senior to stop driving immediately. Studies show that for two years after the diagnosis there is no difference in the accident rate between a person who has Alzheimer’s and a person that does not. But as the disease progresses the accident rate goes up. In the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease some people are able to keep driving but as this disease progresses with memory loss and decision-making skills it is unfortunately time to stop driving for their own safety and the safety of others. Some people with memory problems often decide on their own not to drive while others may deny there is a problem at all. According to the Alzheimer’s Association early in the disease a proactive strategy is to get a comprehensive driving evaluation done by an occupational therapy driving specialist. This evaluation can provide a more objective understanding of Alzheimer’s disease on driving capacity. For example, your loved one may be able to drive short distances on streets they know during the day. If this is the case you can limit the times and places they can drive.
If you notice any signs of unsafe driving such as near misses or new dents in a car; two or more traffic tickets within the last 2 years; comments from neighbors or friends about a loved one’s driving; or hitting curbs, confusing the brake and gas pedals, and returning home from a routine drive later than usual, it is time for them to stop driving. Safety for them and others is the ultimate goal.
When it is time to talk to your loved one about not driving anymore caregivers can use “I” messages rather than “you” messages. For example, “I am concerned about your safety when you drive”. Driving is a privilege and symbol of everyone’s independence. The thought of taking away a loved one’s freedom that comes with driving can be devastating to your loved one. It is important to focus on the driver’s skills and not their age. Most of all be positive and supportive and tell them you will work together to find a solution.
If the discussion does not go well do not blame yourself because the disease can impair judgment and understanding of the situation. Most often reactions are more pronounced because of the disease. The last resort may be to take away the car keys, disable the car or relocate the car elsewhere. There are many other forms of transportation, other than driving, so that your loved one can continue to travel and remain in control of their mobility as much as possible in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease.
Other transportation options such as arranging a taxi service to have medicines, groceries or meals delivered and give transitional driving responsibilities to other family members can provide ways to reduce the need to drive. Ohio does have Retirement Associations and church groups that can provide public transportation to people who are no longer able to drive.
The Alzheimer’s Association reports that the most effective way to determine if it is safe for your loved one to drive is to have them tested by a Driver Rehabilitation Specialist. In Ohio the Cleveland Clinic is one location that offers this service but it requires a prescription from a physician and there is a $350 dollar fee for a 2 hour assessment. Their goal is to help people return to independent driving as long as they are safe to drive. You can also call the Alzheimer’s helpline 1-800-272-3900 and a regional care specialist can guide you through the process of a driving assessment.
Theresa Bowen, Ph.D. is an Educational Consultant and Distance Education professor. Dr. Bowen earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Toledo, OH.
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