Everything You Need to Know About Driving on World Alzheimer’s Day 

As we mark World Alzheimer’s Day, it’s important to shine a light on a common question for many people living with dementia and their families:

“Can I still drive?”

Driving is about more than just getting from A to B - it’s about independence, freedom, and staying connected. At Herts Ability, we’re here to guide you through this journey with care and expertise, ensuring that safety and independence remain in balance.

🚘 Driving with Dementia - What You Need to Know

🔍 Inform the DVLA

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with dementia, it’s essential to inform the DVLA. This helps protect not only the driver but also other road users.

Herts Ability can provide a specialist driving assessment report to support this process, giving you clear, professional evidence to share with the DVLA.

📝 What to Expect from a Driving Assessment at Herts Ability

• A Supportive Environment - Our focus is on helping you maintain independence with compassion and understanding.
• Expert Evaluation - You’ll be assessed by an Occupational Therapist and a Specialist Approved Driving Instructor, looking not just at habits but overall safety.
• Detailed Reporting - We’ll provide a full written report outlining your driving capabilities, which can be shared with the DVLA.

📊 Did You Know?

On World Alzheimer’s Day, take a moment to reflect on these UK statistics:

• Around 850,000 people live with dementia.
• The risk of dementia doubles every 5 years after age 65.
• 1 in 3 people will care for someone with dementia in their lifetime.

🚗 Driving in Senior Years - Independence Without Limits

It’s not just people with dementia who have questions about driving later in life. Many older drivers wonder what happens when they reach 70 and beyond.

Here are some key facts:

• There are over 5 million drivers aged 70+ in the UK.
• Your licence must be renewed when you turn 70, and every 3 years after.
• There’s no upper age limit for driving a car.
• Licence renewal is free and can be done online from 90 days before your 70th birthday.

Age and Driving - The Truth

Some people believe older drivers shouldn’t be on the road. At Herts Ability, we see it differently.

Age alone should never take away independence. While our bodies and minds naturally change as we grow older - perhaps walking slower, reacting more cautiously, or forgetting the odd detail - it doesn’t automatically mean you must give up driving.

That’s where our Driving Assessments come in.

How We Support Older Drivers

• Occupational Therapist Review - Looking at how you move, think, and respond. If there are challenges, we may have solutions.
• Specialist Driving Instructor Input - Reviewing your driving in real conditions, with tips and adaptations where needed.
• Written Report - A clear, supportive report that can be shared with the DVLA when renewing your licence.

💬 Valerie’s Story

“I only drive locally and never in the dark, but it’s a big help and keeps me independent. All the Herts Ability staff were really great, always positive and caring and never gloomy or negative.”

💜 We’re Here for You

Whether it’s Alzheimer’s, dementia, or simply the natural changes of ageing, you don’t have to face the journey alone.

👉 For advice, assessments, or to book with our expert team, call 01707 324 581 or email driving@hertsability.org.uk

At Herts Ability, we’re dedicated to helping you stay safe, stay mobile, and stay independent!

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