Behind the wheel with dementia, new clinical pathway to outline guidance

A pair of Newcastle University scientists are looking to address the issue of adults in the early stages of dementia who still wish to drive, unveiling effective advice and guidelines for health professionals.

Dr John-Paul Taylor and assistant psychologist Kirsty Carter are presenting their findings today to the British Psychological Society Annual Conference, in Harrogate, where they aim to see through a ‘new clinical pathway’ for health workers to follow.

Measures will include advice on how to approach the subject of driving with patients diagnosed with dementia, as well as highlighting the risks involved in driving with short-term memory problems and disorientation. There are also consequences if the individual concerned fails to inform the DVLA of their condition.

Kirsty Carter explains: “The pathway was constructed by an experienced multidisciplinary clinical team based in a busy Memory Assessment Service. We also sought input and refinement via surveys and small group meetings with individuals from a wide range of regional networks and diverse clinical backgrounds, as well as discussion with mobility centres and the DVLA.

“We are really pleased with how well the pathway has been received, by both clinical colleagues and external stakeholders, such as the forum of mobility centres and by patient groups. Psychologists across the UK have expressed interests in adopting the pathway into practice so it has the possibility of being widely disseminated. Feedback has been immensely positive, especially in regards to providing a clear direction in the management of patients with dementia who drive.”

One in six people over 80 are currently estimated as having a diagnosis of dementia, with an ageing population meaning the issue is set to multiply for at least several decades.