Dad has been very forgetful - unsure of time of day, gets lost driving, etc.
At neurologist memory tests showed a decrease in memory etc since last visit six months ago. Wanted to know if anyone had success getting keys/car away from parent without forcibly taking them.......?? He thinks there is nothing wrong with driving...we are worried will get in accident and hurt himself, others, or both.
Now when I take my parents places though it is on MY schedule...
Of course family members have contacted the DMV when the doctor fails to. Of course we inform the insurance companies. It is absolutely critical that a person with dementia not be allowed to put the lives of others in danger.
Getting lost is the least of the problems with demented driving. There is slowed response time. There is momentary loss of memory (which pedal is the brake?) There is diminished judgment. Allowing someone with these impairments to drive is irresponsible. Yes, Dad will be angry and depressed. But you have to do what you have to do. I am so sorry.
Why I asked is that my Dad is also 92 and he stopped driving 5 years ago because of failing eyesight. So that means I have been driving him and Mom everywhere [I'm an only child] and that has me burnt out. I even lost a great full-time job because of all the time I was taking off for all the places my parents needed to be driven. Don't want you to be in that loop unless you have other relatives who can help.
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