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Hi All,
Driving and Parkinson's Disease is a delicate subject that tends to be
avoided....  I believe it is important to discuss this aspect of most of our
lives and make decisions before an *incident* makes it necessary...

Diagnosis and Management of Parkinson's Disease
Cheryl H. Waters, MD,
Professor of Neurology,
College of Physicians and Surgeons,
Columbia University.
http://neurology.medscape.com/PCI/parkinson/public/parkinson-
about.html

Chapter 10: Nonpharmacologic Management of Parkinson's Disease
10.3 Driving
Driving may an integral part of the Parkinson patient's life and, therefore,
may be a significant indication of his or her independence.
Considerations in assessing driving ability should include:

Judgment

Mental status

Reaction speed.

Side effects of medication must also be considered in this context. The
tendency to freeze can be fatal. Since the decision regarding driving is
always difficult, the most objective approach is to have the patient take
an approved driver instruction course or retake the state driver's license
test.

**************

I still drive some, as part of my work but I have cut my driving way down.
I moved from the 'burbs to minutes away from work.  I no longer drive on
extended hi-way trips.  I think it is prudent to have an open mind on this
topic and not be too stubborn.  It is naive to suggest Parkinson's and
Driving are without potential problems.  Some jurisdictions may have
*rules* as well.  When my meds are at an optimum I do feel perfectly
safe.  When my meds are *off* I feel less safe to the point of letting
someone else drive.

Perhaps others may offer an opinion.

All the best ......... murray
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