Driving and Dementia

Here, we explore the challenges faced by people with dementia and their families, offering guidance on recognising when it might be time to stop driving. We provide practical advice, support options, and resources to help navigate this difficult transition, ensuring safety and peace of mind for everyone involved.

What is dementia?

Dementia refers to a group of symptoms that affect memory and thinking skills, making daily life difficult. It can cause you to become more forgetful and struggle with things like problem-solving, speaking and your mood / the way you feel.

“Dementia is an umbrella term for a range of progressive conditions that affect the brain. Each type of dementia stops a person’s brain cells (neurones) working properly in specific areas, affecting their ability to remember, think and speak. Doctors typically use the word ‘‘dementia’’ to describe common symptoms – such as memory loss, confusion, and problems with speech and understanding – that get worse over time.” – Dementia UK.

Alzheimer’s disease is a common type of dementia, making up 60% to 80% of cases, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. The second most common type is vascular dementia, which happens due to bleeding and blockages in the brain’s blood vessels.

Can you drive with dementia?

You can still drive after being diagnosed with dementia, but it depends on your ability to drive safely. According to the Alzheimer’s Society, one in three people with dementia continue to drive. In the early stages, you might be able to drive safely.

However, as dementia progresses, it becomes harder to focus, react quickly and remember things. Eventually, everyone with dementia will have to stop driving – the Alzheimer’s Society suggests that most people who have been diagnosed will stop driving within three years.

When should you stop driving if you have dementia?

It’s important to know when you should stop driving if you have dementia, with the main consideration being whether or not you are safe on the road.

Safety risks

Driving with dementia can be risky. As the condition worsens, it can affect:

• Focus: Keeping your attention on the road and everything around you can become harder.
• Problem-solving: Handling unexpected situations, like detours or roadworks, might be more challenging.
• Reactions: Your reaction time may slow down, making it tougher to avoid accidents.
• Visuospatial skills: You might find it difficult to maintain speed limits or keep a safe distance from other vehicles.
• Memory: Remembering routes or destinations can become a struggle.

Tips for family and carers

If you know someone diagnosed with dementia, it’s important to keep an eye on their driving habits. Look out for warning signs like driving too slowly, getting lost, drifting into other lanes, or appearing drowsy while driving. If you notice any of these signs, it might be necessary to have a gentle conversation about the possibility of them stopping driving.

When discussing dementia and driving with someone, keep the conversation positive. Avoid being judgmental or making hurtful comments. Instead, ask them how they feel about driving and highlight the benefits of stopping, like saving money on petrol, road tax, and car insurance, especially for those over 70 or 80.

Alternatives to driving

If you need to stop driving due to dementia, there are several other ways to get from A to B:

• Public transport: You can use buses, trams, and trains. This is best if you’re in the early stages of dementia.
• Taxi services: You can book a taxi to pick you up and drop you off at home. If you’re in the middle stages of dementia, it’s a good idea to have someone meet you at both ends.
• Family and friends: Ask family members or friends to give you a ride. Make a list of people who can help and when they’re available.
• Special transport services: There are special services in the UK, like those offered by the British Red Cross, that can help with transportation.

Laws about driving with dementia

When someone is diagnosed with dementia, it’s a legal requirement for them to inform the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). This can be done by filling out a CG1 form on the UK Government website.

After reporting, the DVLA might ask for a health check, a driving assessment, or more information from your doctor. They will then send you a letter with one of the following outcomes:

• A new driving licence.
• A short-term licence.
• A notice to stop driving and surrender your licence.

Failing to inform the DVLA or continuing to drive after being told to stop can result in a fine of up to £1,000. It’s also important to notify your car insurance provider about your diagnosis, just as you would do with many other medical conditions.