News

Dementia and Driving

Published Date:

According to the National Institute on Aging, there are more than 41 million licensed drivers age 65 and older on the roads, up from 26 million just 20 years ago. As a person ages, changes in health, including problems with vision, hearing, and reflexes, may affect driving skills.

The risk of being injured or killed in a motor vehicle crash also increases as a person ages. When a person has dementia, the risk increases more.

What happens when the person with dementia is no longer able to stay safe on the roadways? Click here to read an how to recognize an unsafe driver and what to do when your loved one can no longer drive safely.

More from SIU News

Dr. Johnson with cleft patient

The doctors behind the smiles

When a child is born with a cleft lip or palate, SIU Medicine surrounds families with a team devoted to expert care and compassion, from a baby’s first breath to a teen’s final surgery. Our specialists walk alongside families, providing clarity, confidence and lifelong support every step of the way.
Dr. Judy Davie in her lab in Carbondale

From lab to lecture hall, Dr. Judy Davie champions future scientists

Dr. Judy Davie has built a career grounded in discovery, collaboration and mentorship, studying how genes guide muscle development and how cancers disrupt those processes.
Roland and Linda Folse

Generosity as an art form

SIU School of Medicine’s 2025 Distinguished Donors of the Year are a remarkable couple whose unwavering generosity and passion have left a lasting imprint on the school and the region.