Independence can be described as “getting from point A to point B without assistance.” Taken literally, for many of our elders, that means having a driver’s license. The ability to drive a car is paramount in seniors’ minds as one of the last important forms of independence, and most of us want to preserve it as long as possible.
Enter Car-Fit, an educational program that offers older adults the opportunity to check how well their personal vehicles “fit” them.
“Older drivers are often the safest drivers in that they are more likely to wear their seatbelts, and less likely to speed or drink and drive. However, older drivers are more likely to be killed or seriously injured when a crash does occur due to the greater fragility of their aging bodies.”
Car-Fit check-ups can improve older drivers’ safety by ensuring their cars are properly adjusted for them. (Think seat and air bag positions, gas and brake pedal reach, mirror adjustment.) A team of trained technicians and/or health professionals work with each participant, confidentially, to ensure they “fit” their vehicle properly for maximum comfort and safety. A CarFit check takes approximately 20 minutes to complete.
Check the website for a list of Car-Fit events coming to your town and tell your senior family members about the program. Car-Fit is also looking for volunteers to assist at events, the perfect opportunity for new retirees.
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