Driving Safely With Early-Stage Alzheimer’s

Driving isn’t just about getting from one place to another. It represents freedom, independence and control over your daily life. If you have early-stage Alzheimer’s or mild cognitive impairment, you might ask yourself: Can I still drive?

Many people continue driving safely for a while after their diagnosis. But small changes in memory, attention and decision-making can start to affect your driving. This page helps you reflect on your driving skills, plan ahead and stay safe while keeping your independence and dignity.

Why driving may become unsafe

In the early stages of Alzheimer’s, memory and thinking problems are usually mild. You might still feel like yourself in most ways. But even small changes can make driving tougher.

Driving uses many skills all at once, such as:

• Memory
• Attention
• Judgment
• Reaction time
• Visual-spatial awareness (knowing where you are in space)
• Coordination and motor control

Even routine driving tasks need your brain to process information, react to unexpected changes and make quick decisions. For example, approaching an intersection requires attention to traffic signals, pedestrians, other vehicles and sounds like sirens, while steering and braking at the same time.

As Alzheimer’s progresses, these skills can slowly change. You might notice:

• Forgetting directions, even in familiar places
• Missing turns or exits
• Feeling overwhelmed in heavy traffic
• Slower reaction times
• Difficulty judging distance or speed

These changes can happen gradually. Despite being subtle, they need to be taken seriously because they can affect safety for you and others on the road. 

How to check in with yourself

Reflecting on your driving can help you make decisions and plans with everyone’s safety in mind.

Ask yourself:

• Do I feel confident when I drive?
• Have I gotten lost in familiar places?
• Do I feel more stressed when driving than I used to?
• Have I felt confused or unsure behind the wheel?
• Have I had any close calls or near accidents?
• Do others seem concerned about my driving?

Answering “yes” to one question does not mean you must stop driving right away. But it may be a sign that you should look more closely at your habits. Pay attention to patterns, not just one moment.

How to stay safe while driving

Many people with early-stage Alzheimer’s continue driving safely for a time. The goal is to reduce risk and stress. 

Try these tips:

• Keep routes simple: Stick to familiar areas, drive shorter distances and plan your route before you leave.
• Choose the right time: Drive during daylight, avoid rush hour and skip bad weather.
• Limit distractions: Turn off the radio, avoid using your phone and focus solely on driving.
• Give yourself extra time: Leave early and drive at a comfortable speed.
• Use navigation tools: Using mapping tools every time you drive can help prevent getting lost.

Signs it may be time to rethink driving

For some, there is a single moment of realization that it is time to stop driving, but for others the decision comes gradually. It can be difficult to tell when driving is no longer safe. These signs can help guide you.

Watch for:

• Getting lost on familiar routes
• Trouble following traffic signs or signals
• New dents or scratches on your car
• Near misses or close calls
• Honking or frustration from other drivers
• Relying more on passengers for directions
• Feeling anxious or unsure while driving

These are not signs of failure. They are signals that something has changed. Listening to them helps you and others on the road stay safe. 

Talk with your doctor about driving

You don’t have to figure this out on your own. Your health care provider can help you understand how changes in memory and thinking might affect your driving.

They may:

• Review changes you’ve noticed while driving
• Talk through safety concerns
• Recommend a formal driving evaluation if needed
• Explore ways to support safe driving for as long as possible

Understand legal and insurance considerations

Driving with Alzheimer’s involves practical and legal factors. Knowing the rules can prevent surprises. 

You may want to:

• Review your state’s driving requirements
• Contact your auto insurance provider
• Ask about coverage, policies or reporting rules

Laws and guidelines vary by state. Learning what applies to you can help you feel more prepared and confident in your decisions. 

Identify other transportation options

At some point, you will need to limit or stop driving. Planning ahead doesn’t mean losing independence. It’s about finding new ways to maintain it. 

Options may include: 

• Rides from family or friends
• Rideshare apps
• Public transportation
• Community or senior transportation programs
• Volunteer driver programs

A decision that involves both logic and emotion

Driving decisions are both practical and emotional. You may understand that safety matters, while also feeling a sense of loss when thinking about limiting or stopping driving. This is a common and valid experience. 

Give yourself time to process these feelings. Recognize that making thoughtful decisions about driving is a way to protect yourself and others. 

Support for your journey

You are not alone. Living with early-stage Alzheimer’s involves reflection, planning and support. Banner Alzheimer’s Institute offers programs and resources for people experiencing early memory changes, including:

• A driving guide to help with driving decisions 
• Just Me: Early-stage and MCI support group
• A Roadmap of Driving and Dementia: Dementia Untangled Podcast Episode
• Educational programs
• Counseling and behavioral health services
• Care coordination and guidance

Learn more about Banner Alzheimer's Institute or call 602-839-6900.

Frequently asked questions about driving with Alzheimer’s

Can I still drive with early-stage Alzheimer’s?

Many people can continue driving safely for a period of time after diagnosis. Over time, changes in memory and thinking may affect driving ability. Regular reflection and discussions with your provider can help you determine what feels safe.

How does Alzheimer’s affect driving ability?

Alzheimer’s can affect skills needed for driving, such as attention, memory, judgment and reaction time. These changes might make it more difficult to respond quickly or navigate complex traffic situations. 

How do you know when it’s time to stop driving?

There is no single answer. Signs may include getting lost, feeling confused, slower reactions or increased stress while driving. Reflecting on your experience and talking with your provider can help guide your decision. 

Should I talk to my doctor about driving?

Yes. Your health care provider can help you understand how cognitive changes affect your driving and discuss options like a driving evaluation or adjustments to your driving habits. 

What happens if I stop driving?

Many people live full, active lives without driving. Planning ahead and using other transportation options can help you remain independent and connected to your community.