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My mother lives on a farm, with only very small towns nearby. Her doctor has told her she has dementia. I don’t want her to stop driving yet because I don’t think she will have access to public transportation. How do I know when to encourage her to stop driving?

Last Updated: January 23, 2008

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A diagnosis of dementia does not mean that driving is not possible, but an individual with dementia should be monitored so that she does not become a danger to herself or others.

The Alzheimer’s Association ( www.alz.org) offers advice and signs to look for when driving may be too risky, as well as ways to discuss this with family members. Check online at www.publictramsportation.org/systems and the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging at www.n4a.org to determine if there are services in your area. Additional transportation services may be listed in your local telephone directory.

Finally, many state Department of Transportation offices have programs such as the Grand Driver Program that may help determine if it is time for your loved one to stop driving.

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