​
Memory Disorder Services
Navigating driving changes related to memory disorders is challenging—but support makes a difference. Fitness to Drive is here to help individuals and families stay informed, plan ahead, and prioritize safety with compassion and respect.
Check out our comprehensive approach!
Home Visits
Home Visits for Certified Driver Evaluations reduce barriers and better support individuals with mild cognitive impairment.
​
Benefits of Home-Based Evaluations
​
-
Reduced stress and fatigue for the driver
-
Observation of real-world routines and functional abilities
-
Increased accessibility for individuals with mobility, anxiety, or transportation challenges
-
A more comprehensive understanding of safety and support needs
Home visits are conducted by Certified Driver Rehabilitation Specialists (CDRS) and follow the same evidence-based standards as clinic-based evaluations. All in the comfort of familiar surroundings.
Why On-going Driving Re-Evaluations Matter
Driving is a complex activity that relies on memory, attention, judgment, reaction time, and visual-spatial skills. These abilities can decline rapidly and unpredictably, even after a successful initial evaluation.
​
Regular follow-ups help detect early warning signs such as:
​
-
Changes in judgment or decision-making
-
Slowed reaction time
-
Difficulty navigating complex traffic situations
-
Confusion with signs or signals
-
Avoidance of challenging conditions (night driving, highways, bad weather)
Early identification supports proactive planning, reduces crisis situations, and protects both the driver and the public.
​
Evidence Based Guidelines​
The American Academy of Neurology (AAN) recommends that clinicians reassess driving safety every 6 months for individuals with very mild dementia who continue to drive. This recommendation exists because:
​
-
Cognitive decline can occur quickly, even in early stages
-
Driving performance is not static
-
Passing an on-road test today does not guarantee continued safety months later
Care Partner Support
Driving decisions affect more than just the driver—they impact families, care partners, and support networks. We're here to help!
20-Minute Care Partner Phone Appointments
Fitness to Drive now offers one-on-one phone consultations with an occupational therapist for care partners to use as personalized check-ins to:
​
-
Discuss observed cognitive or functional changes
-
Plan next steps for re-evaluation
-
Review warning signs related to driving
-
Identify local and community supports
-
Ask questions and receive professional guidance
Driving decisions can be emotional and complex. You don’t have to navigate them alone. Our occupational therapy team is here to support safety, dignity, and quality of life—every step of the way.
​
Changes to Watch for Between Evaluations
Care partners often notice changes before they appear during a formal evaluation. Please contact Fitness to Drive at 719.231.6657 if you observe any of the following:
​
-
New dents, scrapes, or unexplained vehicle damage
-
Getting lost on familiar routes
-
Slower reaction time or difficulty at intersections
-
Confusion with traffic signs or signals
-
Increased anxiety, agitation, or frustration while driving
-
Near misses, honking from other drivers, or traffic citations
-
Avoidance of driving at night, on highways, or in bad weather
-
Family or friends expressing concern about driving safety
Early conversations about these changes can help prevent crises and support safer, more gradual transitions.​​