Driving after Dementia Diagnosis

Older adults diagnosed with dementia who have been driving throughout their adult lives may struggle to accept the idea of declining orientation and judgment abilities. As family caregivers who take care of them and are concerned for their wellbeing, it is important to know that dementia can significantly impact their driving capabilities and skills.

The moment you realize a family member diagnosed with dementia poses a risk while driving, it is crucial to immediately limit their access to the car. This action is necessary to ensure the safety of both the patient and others.

If you have noticed similar symptoms in a family member diagnosed with dementia, it is recommended that you consult with the medical team accompanying you and, according to their recommendation, make an informed decision regarding whether to discontinue driving. Furthermore, you must update the Licensing Bureau in case your family members cannot do so themselves.

According to the law, your family doctor (as well as other medical professionals) is obliged to report patients who may endanger themselves and others to the Medical Institute for Road Safety in the Ministry of Health. Following this report, the Medical Institute will consider whether to summon the reported individuals to a driving competency test.

Occupational therapy clinics offer driving estimation and rehabilitation tests, which are conducted by knowledgeable occupational therapists specializing in this area. The examination includes a test in the clinic, a simulator exam, and an on-road driving test. The diagnosis will help the doctor make a decision. Additionally, the diagnosis will help inform your family members of the decision and assist in their coping process.

In the early stages, a referral can be obtained to a community driving rehabilitation clinic.