Transition to not driving

Discuss this, its alternatives and strategies with the patient’s family before broaching this subject with the patient.

Regardless of driving ability, all patients should be advised that due to the generally progressive and irreversible nature of dementia they will eventually need to stop driving and plan for the transition to not driving.^[1]

If applicable, focusing on physical problems such as vision loss or medications rather than dementia may make the advice to stop driving more acceptable.

Consider discussing the potential impact an accident would have on others and the possibility of legal action taken against them and that driving against advice may render insurance policies void.

• For alternative transport options, refer to the VicRoads pages Considering your driving future and Getting around without a car and Dementia Australia’s Dementia and Driving webpage.
• Consider counselling as unexpected advice to stop driving can be difficult to adjust to.
• Consider providing written information for the patient and family to refer to and reinforce.^[2]
• In case of difficulty, keys may be removed and vehicles disabled or removed.

Always remember to document concerns, advice, assessment and recommendations.