Driving an Auto and Alzheimer’s

Giving up the keys is one of the hardest — and most emotional — steps for people living with Alzheimer’s. But it can also be one of the most important acts of self-awareness and courage. 

In this powerful episode, Janna and Larry open up about the real story behind Janna’s decision to stop driving: the denial, the scary moments, the emotional fallout, and the deep pride that made it feel so hard. With honesty and humility, they unpack how they navigated the turning point, and what it means to keep thriving — even when letting go of something big. 

You’ll discover: 

• The personal moment that made Janna realize it was time to stop driving 
• Why driving with Alzheimer’s is more dangerous than many want to admit 
• How to talk about safety without shame or control 
• The emotional weight of “giving up,” and how to reframe it as strength 

If you or a loved one is facing this decision, this episode offers real empathy, practical wisdom, and the reminder that letting go doesn’t mean losing yourself. It means choosing life — and those around you — with courage. 

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Links and Studies   

1. Mild cognitive impairment & early Alzheimer’s: predictors of driving cessation 

 “Mild cognitive impairment, Alzheimer’s disease dementia, and predictors of driving cessation” (7‑year prospective study) 

•Link: PubMed    

 

 

2. Subtle cognitive decline often precedes self‑withdrawal from driving 

Study at Washington University St. Louis, published in Neurology & summarized by WashU and Harvard 

Link ScienceDaily and Harvard Studies 

 

3. Driving in early‑stage AD: literature review 

 “Driving in Early‑Stage Alzheimer’s Disease: An Integrative Review” (2016) 

•Link: Research in Gerontological Nursing