A letter from the attending physician recommending against continued driving may also be shown to the individual. Some persons with dementia are aware of having difficulty with driving and are relieved when they are told to stop. However, having to give up driving is likely to be upsetting. Emotional support may help these individuals adjust to this significant loss of independence and ability. It will be important to make other transportation arrangements so that the impaired person's mobility and activity level aren't unduly restricted.
Laws pertaining to driving and dementia are subject to change.
DMV's Policies for Evaluating Persons Reported with Dementia. Evaluating the Driving Competence of Dementia Patients, Alzheimer's Disease and Associated Disorders. Family Caregiver Alliance supports and assists caregivers of brain-impaired adults through education, research, services and advocacy. Clearinghouse covers current medical, social, public policy and caregiving issues related to brain impairments. For residents of the greater San Francisco Bay Area, FCA provides direct family support services for caregivers of those with Alzheimer's disease, stroke, head injury, Parkinson's and other debilitating brain disorders that strike adults.