Alzheimers/Dementia

Alzheimers/Dementia

Deciding if and when its time to stop driving is an extremely difficult and emotional time. When Alzheimer's ordementia occurs, a decision will need to be made as to when an individual is no longer capable of operating an automobile safely. The individuals' independence needs to be measured against the potential hazards to themselves, and the community. An evaluation by the driver rehabilitation specialist can be of great value in helping to make this difficult decision. A driver evaluation will assess the components of driving that may be compromised by this progressive condition. Areas assessed should include: attention, processing speed, visuospatial functioning, decision making, judgment, planning, memory, and behavior.

An evaluation is recommended when a diagnosis or problems first arise. Compensatory strategies can be used to help maintain safe driving, and to set limits in preparation for the inevitable. Discussing the issue, and planning for the future, is important to do while the individual has the insight needed to participate.


Warning signs are listed below.

• Driving too slowly
• Doesn't observe signs or signals
• Difficulty interpreting traffic situations and predicting changes
• Failure to yield
• Easily frustrated or confused
• Frequently gets lost
• Needs instructions from passengers
• Poor road position or driving the wrong way down streets

If you or those that drive with you notice any of the above warning signs and need a driving evaluation. Give us a call at 508-697-6006 and we can, help you with with knowledge about medical conditions, and help with a comprehensive evaluation and determine your ability to drive.

• Visual Perception
• Functional Ability
• Reaction Time
• Behind-the-wheel evaluation

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Our goal for the past 25+ years here at Automotive Innovations Bridgewater, MA, Massachusetts, is to provide our customers with access to the best sales, service and repair for all the leading wheelchair accessible mobility vehicles, hand controls and devices that can offer you greater freedom and independence. We are your New England adaptive mobility equipment dealer and offer a full line of VMI wheelchair accessible vans, or Vantage Mobility International products, and we have a team of Certified Mobility Consultants who are always ready to help you learn about the benefits and features of full sized handicap vans, new and used wheelchair vehicles, Ricon lifts, adaptive mobility equipment, and more.

Automotive Innovations  

1000 Main St  Bridgewater, MA   

508-697-6006