Parkinson’s Disease’s Impact On Driving

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a degenerative neurological disorder that can impair motor skills, vision, cognitive ability, and other physical and neurological processes needed for safe driving. These changes are not a result of personal shortcomings, but of problems caused by the illness itself. It can be very challenging seeing a loved one impacted by Parkinson’s. This is why it is important to make a plan on how to handle what is happening to your family member. With the correct therapies, equipment, and techniques, many people with Parkinson’s can continue to drive.

How Parkinson’s Disease Can Influence Driving

Parkinson’s disease symptoms vary greatly and may affect driving ability in a number of ways. There are a variety of symptoms of Parkinson’s disease that influence motor function and reaction times. These are:

• Muscle Rigidity
• Body Tremors
• Bradykinesia (slowness of movement)
• Instability & Posture Problems
• Dyskinesia (involuntary movements)
• Fatigue and overall weakness
• Freezing Episodes

Parkinson’s Medication Side Effects Can Impact Driving Ability

The medication that is taken with Parkinson’s, although necessary, may sometimes induce variations in awareness, uncontrollable movements (dyskinesia), or sleepiness, which may impair driving.

Assess Your Loved One’s Parkinson’s Symptoms

If a loved one has Parkinson’s and you are concerned about their driving ability, it is important to have their symptoms assessed. As they are driving, pay attention to their physical and cognitive skills. If they show signs of distress or find it more challenging to drive than they used to, it may indicate that it is time to have a driving evaluation to protect their safety and that of other drivers.

The Importance of Comprehensive Driving Evaluation

An Occupational Therapy Driver Rehabilitation Specialist (OT DRS) is specially trained to evaluate the effects of Parkinson’s symptoms on driving ability. A complete driving exam may assist in identifying areas of strength and weakness while also providing specific advice to promote safe driving. Key elements of the assessment include:

• Medical and Medication Review: Exploring how Parkinson’s disease and its treatment may impair driving.
• Functional assessment involves evaluating strength, coordination, and flexibility for activities, such as steering, stopping, and checking blind areas.
• Vision testing including visual acuity, visual fields, contrast sensitivity, and depth perception.
• Cognitive testing to examine memory, problem-solving, and processing speed.
• Behind-the-Wheel Assessment: Observing real-world driving performance to determine particular requirements or adjustments.

Tools & Strategies for Safe Driving with Parkinson’s

Many people with Parkinson’s can still drive with the right adjustments and strategies:

• Vehicle modifications: may include installing hand controls for the gas and brake functions, wider mirrors to lessen the need for head tilting, and spinning knobs for simpler steering.
• Timed Driving: Scheduling excursions around when medicine is most effective and avoiding times of day when symptoms change.
• Avoiding high-stress driving conditions: Avoiding high traffic, night driving, and poor weather wherever feasible.
• Regular Health Maintenance: Having regular check-ups to evaluate changes in symptoms, eyesight, and medication side effects.

Plan for Future Transitions With Parkinson’s

Parkinson’s is a progressive disease, therefore preparing for future changes in driving ability is critical. Open discussions regarding driving retirement might be difficult, but they are a crucial part of maintaining safety. Transitioning to other modes of transportation does not imply losing independence; rather, it involves adjusting to retain one’s quality of life. Options include:

• Rides from relatives and friends.
• Senior transportation services.
• Public transportation.
• Ride-sharing services such as Uber or Lyft.

Support for Individuals and Families

Parkinson’s illness offers unique obstacles, but with the correct care and tools, people may typically drive safely for years. An OT Driver Rehabilitation Specialist may help people and their families navigate the assessment process, propose adjustments, and give training for new driving skills. If you or a loved one has Parkinson’s and is concerned about driving, book a full driving exam now. At Adaptive Mobility, we are devoted to assisting drivers in navigating these changes and maintaining their independence securely. We’re here to support you, whether in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, or via our nationwide network. Email susie@adaptivemobility.com to learn more, or book an appointment.