“Driving concerns should be discussed with the healthcare team as soon as possible; they can help determine whether a formal driving evaluation is called for,” says Moser.
You or a family member can also arrange an evaluation independently if you notice significant changes in driving or cognitive testing that shows problems with abilities needed behind the wheel, he adds.
You may already want to stop driving because it makes you anxious or don’t think it’s safe anymore.
“The person with HD should be allowed to stop driving, rather than reassuring them that their driving is fine or that they should undergo a formal driving evaluation just to make sure they should stop,” says Moser.
The exact process varies, but an evaluation may include:
Office or Clinic Testing You may answer questions about your medical and driving history and complete vision, physical, and cognitive tests. These can assess reaction time, attention, processing speed, memory, spatial skills, decision-making, coordination, and motor control, says Shannon.
A Driving Simulator Some programs may have you “drive” in a simulator while an evaluator measures skills such as braking reaction time, visual scanning, and the ability to divide your attention in a safe, controlled setting.
An On-Road Evaluation You may drive on public roads with a specialist in a vehicle equipped with safety features such as an instructor’s brake. The evaluator observes your strengths and difficulties and may recommend strategies, adaptive equipment, training, or stopping driving.
When changes are very subtle and there have been no dangerous close calls, the care team or evaluator may recommend limits on driving instead of an immediate stop.
If driving changes are very subtle and have not led to dangerous close calls, Moser says precautions may include:
- Take only short trips in familiar areas.
- Drive during daylight, light traffic, and good weather.
- Drive only when you are rested and alert.
- Limit distractions, including conversations, caring for children or other passengers, and phone use.
- Keep a phone in the car so you can pull over and call for help if needed.
Because HD is progressive, any such plan needs to be revisited rather than considered permanent.
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