Dementia & Driving: When to Stop, What to Do

Driving safely requires clear judgment, fast reactions, and strong memory. With Alzheimer’s or other dementias, these abilities change over time. Here are Dr. Omar's tips on how to keep everyone safe on the road while respecting independence.

If you or a family member is dealing with the challenges of dementia, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with Dr. Omar Board Certified Family Physician in St Augustine,

to discuss a personalized safety plan with us. Call our office at 904-342-8351.

1. Why Dementia Affects Safe Driving

Dementia can interfere with:

• Memory – forgetting familiar routes

• Judgment – ignoring traffic rules or road signs

• Reaction time – responding too slowly in traffic

• Motor control – confusing the brake and gas pedals

• Spatial awareness – drifting lanes, hitting curbs, or struggling at intersections

  
  

2. How to Start the Conversation

It’s best to talk about driving early, before serious accidents happen.

• Be compassionate: Emphasize care and concern, not criticism.

• Acknowledge feelings: Giving up driving can feel like losing freedom.

• Offer alternatives: Family rides, rideshare apps, taxis, or delivery services.

• Doctor involvement: Ask Dr. Omar to provide medical guidance or a written note stating that driving is no longer safe. You can do so by scheduling an appointment here.

• Driving contract: Early in the illness, some families create an agreement where the person with dementia promises to stop driving when advised.

  
  

3. Evaluating Driving Ability

A clear, objective evaluation can help:

• Specialist assessments: Driving rehabilitation specialists or occupational therapists can provide road tests and advice.

• Medical checkups: Routine appointments with Dr. Omar can help monitor abilities and recommend next steps. Schedule an appointment here.

  
  

4. Planning for Life Without Driving

Losing the car doesn’t mean losing independence. Plan ahead by:

• Arranging rides with family or friends

• Using rideshare or community transport programs

• Setting up grocery, meal, and medication delivery services

• Creating new routines that keep your loved one socially active and engaged

  
  

5. Signs It’s Time to Stop Driving

Watch closely for:

• Fender benders or near misses

• Driving too slowly or too aggressively

• Confusing the brake and gas pedal

• Getting lost on familiar routes

• Emotional outbursts, confusion, or anxiety behind the wheel

  
  

If these signs appear:

• Take away or hide car keys

• Disable or sell the vehicle

• Reassure your loved one that safe and reliable alternatives are in place

  
  

  

  
  

How Dr. Omar Can Help

• Early consultation: Start planning before driving becomes unsafe.

• Objective evaluation: Receive guidance on whether your loved one is still safe to drive.

• Medical documentation: A written note from Dr. Omar can support family discussions.

• Support with alternatives: Learn practical ways to stay active without relying on driving.

Ready to plan ahead for driving safety? Schedule an appointment with Dr. Omar today to keep you and your loved ones safe.

https://share.google/kEJuplpFxj71VTeo6