Staying mobile with dementia

Public transportation

People with dementia often still travel by bus and train themselves. And that's a good thing, because dementia should not be a reason to shut yourself off from the outside world.

Public transport staff have often undergone their own training so that they know how to support people with dementia. However, there are also tips for the people affected themselves and for their relatives. For example, it can be useful if a person with dementia has an annual pass and does not have to remember to buy a ticket every 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 Getting around well with dementia in the city

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 Website ÖBB also provides an overview of "Senior:in Mobil" advisors who can also help you.

Senior:in Mobil - Website ÖBB

Driving a car

At the onset of dementia, those affected can often still drive safely. However, this changes as the disease progresses. There is no law that prohibits driving with dementia. However, you must be aware that people can be injured. Specialist doctors or psychologists can advise you on this. The relevant authorities can also impose a driving ban. However, this does not necessarily prevent a person with dementia from driving.

The relief organization 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 on the subject and talk about the dangers for your father and other road users. Practice taking the bus or train together for important journeys or find out about 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