Knowing when to stop driving is one of the hardest decisions with Alzheimer's, but it's an important one for personal safety and the safety of others. There are some key warning signs to watch for:
- Getting lost on familiar routes
- Difficulty following traffic signs or signals
- Slow reaction times or trouble making Show Full Answer
Knowing when to stop driving is one of the hardest decisions with Alzheimer's, but it's an important one for personal safety and the safety of others. There are some key warning signs to watch for:
- Getting lost on familiar routes
- Difficulty following traffic signs or signals
- Slow reaction times or trouble making decisions while driving
- Confusion about where the gas, brake, or other controls are
- Unexplained dents, scrapes, or near-misses
- Feeling anxious or overwhelmed while driving
If any of these sound familiar, it's time to have an honest conversation with a doctor. They can assess driving ability and may refer for a formal driving evaluation. Many myALZteam members have shared how difficult this transition can be emotionally. One myALZteam member shared that their husband "remembers nothing" about why he can't drive, even after multiple doctor visits explaining the safety concerns.
It helps to know that a doctor can contact the DMV directly, which takes some of the pressure off family members. Safety always comes first — for the driver and everyone else on the road.
AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to
diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.
Driving and Alzheimer's
July 19