New details released regarding a head-on crash that killed two people in Sheboygan county earlier this week. The driver was heading the wrong way on I-43 near Oostburg Wednesday and it’s been reported that he suffered from Alzheimer's. The 84-year-old and a father of two in the other car both died as a result from the wreck. Tonight NBC26 investigates how to deal with family members who may have the disease, so that another tragedy like this could possibly be avoided.
There isn't a cookie cutter response as to when it's no longer safe for your loved ones to be behind the wheel anymore. But there are some tell tale signs that dementia or Alzheimer's has begun.
About 12 percent of senior citizens in Wisconsin suffer from Alzheimer's. That's over 110 thousand people state wide.
"I don't think people are ready for the wave that we're going to get of people in the next twenty years," says Vicki Johnson a Communication Outreach Specialist for the Alzheimer’s Association.
But the disease has many phases and you can’t use a one size fits all approach when it comes to whether or not your loved one, can still get behind the wheel.
"Because you have Alzheimer's disease it does not mean you can't drive," adds Katherine Graham the Workplace Education Specialist at the Alzheimer’s Association.
If you start noticing some of the signs of dementia or Alzheimer's at home though, it's recommended that you accompany your loved one on a drive. That’s because it’s important that you see first hand their driving behaviors and how they handle themselves on the road.
"Do they go through traffic signs or traffic lights?” Asks Graham.
"You might start noticing some dings on the car when they go in and out of the garage," adds Johnson.
And if that's the case, a professional diagnosis from a doctor followed by a thoughtful conversation with family is the best way to approach a life changing decision involving taking the keys away.
"We usually suggest that you do it as a family. And try to avoid the words, we think you have Alzheimer’s," says Johnson.
Because taking away all of the freedom associated with getting behind the wheel, shouldn't be a decision made on a whim.
About one in three seniors who die each year has Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. Having a conversation early with your loved ones and even creating a contract with them is one way to help keep them safe.
If you would like to find out more about what the Alzheimer’s Association says is the best way to talk to a loved one about giving up their keys, just click here or give them a call at 1-800-272-3900
