CarFit improves stability for older drivers

SUPERIOR – Safety experts in Helena, Mont. are staging a free program designed to help seniors find out how the “fit” of their personal vehicle impacts their driving. 

Mature drivers in the area can bring their vehicles to the 15th Annual Old Schoolhouse Rock Car Show on June 7 from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. to receive a free CarFit safety assessment. 

CarFit is an innovative national program designed to give a quick, yet comprehensive check on how well an older driver and their vehicle work together, and provides motorists with resources intended to keep them driving safely longer. This event is open to the public, and people wishing to participate are encouraged to register for a time slot before the event by calling 822-5122. 

“As we age, changes in our vision, flexibility, strength, range of motion, even size and height may make us less comfortable and reduce our control behind the wheel,” said AAA Spokeswoman Kaelyn Kelly. “CarFit provides older adults with the tools to understand and apply the safety features of their vehicles.”

At a CarFit event, trained volunteers complete a 12-point checklist with each driver. The technicians discuss topics including steering wheel placement, mirror adjustment and seat belt positioning with the driver.

After the safety assessment, technicians can refer the driver to an occupational therapist who, if needed, can discuss how the driver can maintain and improve aspects related to their driving health. The therapist can address the participants’ 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 personal safety a priority,” Kelly said. “Driving today is more difficult than ever because of increased traffic congestion, longer commute distances, larger vehicles and faster speeds. Older drivers can take important measures to mitigate the stress associated with driving.”

The CarFit program was created by the American Society on Aging and developed in collaboration with AAA, AARP and the American Occupational Therapy Association.