Staying mobile with dementia

Public transportation

People with dementia often continue to travel independently by bus and train, and this is encouraged – dementia should not be a reason to withdraw from the outside world.

Public transport personnel often receive training on how to support people with dementia. There are also practical tips for people with dementia and their relatives. For example, having an annual travel pass can be helpful so that the person does not need to remember to buy a ticket each time.

If you click on the following link and go to page 25, you will find tips for people with dementia. Page 28 continues with tips for relatives:

Brochure on navigating the city with dementia

If you are traveling with ÖBB and have problems buying tickets at the ticket machine, you will find a telephone number on each machine where you can get help. On the ÖBB website you can also find an overview of "Senior:in Mobil" advisors who can provide assistance.

Senior:in Mobil - Website ÖBB

Driving a car

At the onset of dementia, those affected can often still drive safely. However, as the disease progresses, this may change. There is no law that prohibits driving with dementia, but it is important to recognise that the risk of people getting injured can increase. Specialist doctors or psychologists can provide advice, and the relevant authorities can also impose a driving ban. Even so, having dementia does not necessarily prevent a person from driving.

Hilfswerk provides the following example, including a recommendation:

"Heinz B.: 'My father won't accept that he can no longer drive. He's a danger to himself and others. As soon as I bring up the subject, he becomes stubborn. He will never voluntarily give up his beloved car."

Our tip: Stay focused on the issue and discuss the potential dangers for your father and other road users. Practice taking the bus or train together for important journeys or look into special cab fares in your area. If the risk becomes too great and there is a lack of understanding, a last resort may be to take the car key and the spare key (if you have one) for the time being.

Last update: June 30, 2025