Transitioning away from driving can feel overwhelming, but having a plan can make the shift more manageable and help preserve your independence.
Occupational therapists play an important role here as well. They can help you evaluate your cognitive skills, identify safe transportation options, and craft a personalized plan based on your routine, says Redar.
Plans might include grocery delivery, rides from family or friends, local transportation services for older adults, taxis, or ride-sharing apps.
Staying Safe With Public Transit or Rideshares
Getting around via public transportation, taxis, and ride-sharing services (like Uber or Lyft) may be manageable by some people with early-stage Alzheimer’s, but there are multiple steps that could be a challenge for someone with impaired executive function, says Redar.
For public transportation, you need to be aware of schedules, planning a route, and where to get off and on if you need to change buses or trains.
Ride-sharing apps require sequencing multiple steps, from sharing your location, entering your destination correctly, booking the ride, to ending the task by tipping the driver in some cases, says Redar.
“As the disease progresses, individuals living with Alzheimer’s will need supervision from a care partner to ensure safe utilization of services,” Redar says. An occupational therapist can help determine whether these tasks are still safe.
Where to Find Local Transportation Help
Your state Department of Health and Human Services, local council on aging, and community volunteer driver programs can provide information about transportation resources. Many communities also offer reduced-cost taxi vouchers, senior shuttle services, or paratransit options for people with cognitive impairment.
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