New research aims to improve driving safety for people living with dementia

A new 18-month research project, funded by The Road Safety Trust, has launched to address the issue of road safety for people living with dementia.

The project, which is a collaboration between the University of Surrey and Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Trust, will test the feasibility and effectiveness of a UK-adapted dementia driving decision aid (DDDA-UK) within memory services across Surrey.

The DDDA-UK is a resource that helps drivers living with dementia make decisions about driving, stopping to drive and planning for alternative mobility options.

The project, launched in January 2025, aims to help with earlier, more sensitive conversations about stopping driving and empowering people with dementia to actively participate in decisions about their forms of transportation and safety. The research will explore how the DDDA-UK can be effectively implemented in both clinical and home settings, ultimately aimingo improve health, social and road safety outcomes.

To drive or not to drive, is such a difficult and delicate discussion for many people, family members and loved ones. Often, families and healthcare professionals hesitate to address this sensitive topic until a serious incident occurs.

Our research will test the use of a dementia-specific decision aid, providing a structured framework for these vital conversations and ensuring people living with dementia are central to the decision-making process, promoting both their wellbeing and road safety for everyone. Dr Theopisti Chrysanthaki, Lecturer in Integrated Care/ehealth

Many people living with dementia continue to drive safely for some time, but as the condition progresses, making decisions about when to stop driving can be incredibly difficult for individuals and their families.

We are very pleased to be able to fund this project, which is intended to provide much-needed guidance and support, helping families and healthcare professionals navigate those conversations in a way that prioritises both road safety and the wellbeing of those affected. Ruth Purdie OBE, chief executive at The Road Safety Trust