Driving and Dementia
Many people with dementia are able to continue driving for some time after their diagnosis. Driving can help people maintain their independence and an active life. The basic skills of driving become almost automatic to most drivers and people with dementia will likely keep these skills for a considerable time after their diagnosis. However sometimes people with dementia may be slower to react, or make decisions.
You can take sensible steps to reduce any risks with your driving. To make things safer you can avoid difficult driving conditions, like busy traffic, fast roads or long trips. You should try to stick to familiar routes and allow yourself plenty of time for making any journeys.
If you are diagnosed with dementia you must inform the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) and your insurance company. If you don’t, you are breaking the law and you can be fined up to £1000 and your insurance may not cover you if you drive. If someone with dementia does not inform the DVLA themselves, family or friends can contact the DVLA Drivers’ Medical Group on their behalf or GPs and health professionals can contact the DVLA directly.
Once the DVLA have been contacted they will send a questionnaire and get reports from your doctor. If there are concerns about whether you are safe to drive you can also complete an off-road driving assessment with a healthcare specialist like an occupational therapist, who may be based in your local mental health team. The DVLA may need you to have an on-road driving assessment. Your GP can refer you to the Scottish Driving Assessment Service (SDAS) in Edinburgh who can complete an on-road assessment of your driving ability and safety. The medical advisors at DVLA will take the final decision on your suitability to drive.
More detailed information about driving and dementia can be found at the following website:
