A diagnosis of Alzheimer's Disease or another kind of dementia is not automatically a reason to take away driving privileges. Unfortunately, no examination or single indicator exists to determine when a person with dementia poses a danger to himself or others. Families must determine when a person's attention span, distance perception or ability to process information makes it difficult for him or her to respond safely in driving situations.

1. Decrease in confidence while driving
2. Difficulty turning to see when backing up
3. MRiding the brake
4. Easily distracted while driving
5. Other drivers often honk horns
6. Incorrect signaling
7. Difficulty parking within a defined space
8. Hitting curbs
9. Scrapes or dents on the car, mailbox or garage
10. Increased agitation or irritation when driving
11. Failure to notice activity on the side of the road
12. Failure to notice traffic signs
13. Trouble navigating turns
14. Driving at inappropriate speeds
15. Not anticipating potential dangerous situations
16. Uses a copilot
17. Bad judgment on making left hand turns
18. Near misses
19. Delayed response to unexpected situations
20. Moving into wrong lane
21. Difficulty maintaining lane position
22. Confusion at exits
23. Ticketed moving violations or warnings
24. Getting lost in familiar places
25. Car accident
26. Failure to stop at stop sign or red light
27. Confusing the gas and brake pedals
28. Stopping in traffic for no apparent reason

Use the Warning Signs for Drivers with Dementia worksheet for a systematic, objective way to assess driving over time. It can help caregivers be more attentive to any decline in abilities.

• Consider the frequency and severity of incidents. Several minor incidents or an unusual, major incident may warrant action.
• Look for patterns of change over time. Isolated or minor incidents do not warrant immediate or drastic action.
• Avoid an alarming reaction. Take notes and have conversations at a later, convenient time.

Share observations with the person with dementia, other family members and health care providers. Families need to consider the circumstances and seriousness of unsafe driving practices before choosing the next steps - continue monitoring, modify driving or stop driving immediately.