The American Academy of Neurology issued a new guideline to help doctors and families determine when someone diagnosed with dementia is no longer able to safely drive. Unfortunately, the release was a bit softer than many would hope. Their findings were that many of those who have dementia will eventually have to quit driving due to their symptoms, but not that everyone who has dementia should stop driving immediately, or when they should stop at all.
The biggest problem is that symptoms are hard to gauge, and there’s no real way of setting a standard. Though many people might say they feel they’re able to drive, they might not be able to pass a driving exam.
No matter how you look at it, it’s never easy to give up your keys. After all, you’re giving up a part of your independence, and I don’t know anyone who can say they’re ever happy to do that. What makes it even harder is that many seniors rely on their cars to pick up valuable things, such as groceries and medications, and for that matter, keep active in their social lives.
It’s because of reasons like these that we’re so passionate about transportation services, such as the ones we offer at FirstLight Home Care. These services allow people to continue enjoying their lives, while easing the worries of their loved ones.
Caregivers can take people anywhere they need to go, from meeting up with friends to getting groceries, while making sure that their passengers get in and out of the car safely. Most importantly, you’ll know that the person behind the wheel is able to react to any driving hazard.