Study finds many continue driving with dementia, road safety concerns

One in 10 elderly Americans develop Alzheimer's or dementia, challenging their daily lives as they experience cognitive decline. A recent study found many with this condition continue driving, posing a greater risk for road safety.

Researchers with University of Michigan Medicine demonstrated the complicated factors at play for those affected, as caregivers and individuals with dementia struggle to navigate the decisions around driving.

As people lose their cognitive functioning, the ability to drive safely will also decline, adding to the difficulty of adapting to life with this disease. Concerns of road safety for drivers with dementia, as well as the loss of independence, can be difficult to process.

"It is likely appropriate that some with mild cognitive impairment are still driving but for some it may not be," said senior author Lewis B. Morgenstern.

The study examined the driving patterns of over 600 adults 65 years and older who have Alzheimer's or dementia. Based in Nueces County, Texas, researchers considered the participants cognitive state and their driving habits to establish findings for the broader society.

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Researchers found that 61.4% of participants continued to drive despite their illness, causing concerns for caregivers. While many participants took precautions, including avoiding driving at night or in rainy conditions, 35% of caregivers reported concerns about the driving.

For those living with cognitive decline and their caregivers, discussing health issues can be a delicate matter. These conversations should account for the balance of safety concerns for the drivers and empathy for their desire to maintain independence. Affected individuals should also contact their healthcare providers for guidance on driving safety and their next best steps.

The study results were published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society on June 29.

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Researchers advise planning ahead on the individual's future with driving, making a decision with a caregiver early on in a diagnosis. By having the discussion early, individuals can make a decision on their driving safety and avoid future stress on themselves and their caregivers.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Many with dementia still drive, concerning caregivers