When a husband or wife, loved ones or friend were recently given the diagnosis Parkinson’s which is devastating, moreover this is certainly going to impact the ability to operate a motor vehicle. Some signs and symptoms to check for are coordination, ability to multi-task, memory decline, the ability to process information and make decisions. These are all symptoms to carefully monitor plus have an immediate effect on an individual’s ability to operate a motor vehicle. Now what on earth do you do?  A diagnosis of Parkinson’s does not automatically imply an immediate relinquishing driving a car. Nevertheless, whether you are an individual with Parkinson’s or a loved one, this is essential to be accountable and remember the potential risks that Parkinson’s exposes to driving. Dismissing the negative effects of the disease and the required medications on an individual’s ability to drive a car will just establish a more dangerous environment for everyone. This is an extremely delicate issue and must be approach having care and attention supporting the PWP (Person with Parkinson’s) helping them comprehend it is time to restrict or even give up their driving and operation of a vehicle.

Include members of the support team, Doctor, occupational therapist, physical therapist as well as have a direct conversation with everyone involved. The Doctor will utilize all rehabilitation and therapy at their disposal to help maintain independence of operation of a vehicle as long as it is safe. However the concerns will certainly have to be asked, are you confident to drive with your love ones in the vehicle and their safety is directly responsible in your ability to operate the motor vehicle? These are hard, challenging questions but have to be asked and dealt with as the consequences could be dire. These direct conversations with family members, doctors and other members of the support team usually are adequate to persuade an individual with Parkinson’s disease to modify their driving or give up their vehicle keys. Additional support may come from the attorney or financial advisor.

When these discussions take place have alternatives on how the individual with Parkinson’s can maintain their independence and be mobile with other transportation options. Ease into the transition. Begin minimizing the need to drive by having friends and loved ones deliver food or groceries. Plan on having someone drive them to the doctor the barber shop or hair dresser.  If necessary make arrangements for them to make home visits.

Introduce utilizing public transportation; check with the local transit authority as they should have special rates and services available so take advantage of them. Taxi Cab services, while a, bit expensive can additionally be a source of transportation. There are churches or synagogues usually offer services to members and the communities with transportation so check with these in your area. Set up a schedule with family members and friends who could also provide transportation to the grocery store or pick medications. If a resident of an assisted living facility they usually provide daily transportation services to various areas in the community as well as for doctor visits.

This without a doubt is going to be a tough transition and there probably is going to be an unwillingness to give up the right to drive. Have a well thought out strategy in place that will allow mobility via various sources of transportation and a support team in place to making certain all the mobility requirements are satisfied. Make the transition as seamless as possible through being organized and having an action plan is place.