AAA to host CarFit Event for Area Seniors

AAA East Central will host a free safety event for mature drivers Thursday, September 19, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the AAA office at 321 Whittington Parkway, Louisville.

CarFit is a national program developed by AAA, AARP and the American Occupational Therapy Association and is designed to give a quick, yet comprehensive check on how well an older driver and their vehicle work together.

"As we age, changes in our vision, flexibility, strength, range of motion and even size and height may make us less comfortable and reduce our control behind the wheel," said Roger Boyd, AAA East Central Safety Advisor. "CarFit provides older adults with the tools to understand and apply the safety features of their car."

At the CarFit event, trained volunteers will complete a 12-point checklist with each driver. Among the items checked:

• Correct position of driver's seat
• Driver's ability to easily reach pedals
• Proper adjustment of mirrors

Occupational therapists will be on hand also to provide a consultation, if needed, to teach drivers how to maintain and improve aspects related to their driving health. The therapist can also provide information to participants addressing individual needs, including information about local community resources on exercise, nutrition and other programs to help keep them safe on the road.

"It is critically important that mature drivers make safety a personal priority," said Boyd. "Driving today is more difficult than ever because of increased traffic congestion, longer commute distances, new technology and faster speeds. Attending a CarFit event is just one way older motorists can ease the stress associated with driving."

For more information regarding CarFit and AAA senior driving programs, visit www.seniordriving.aaa.com.

AAA East Central is a not-for-profit organization with 82 local offices in Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Kentucky and New York, servicing 2.7 million members.