As 10,000 Americans turn 65 each day, ensuring their safety on the road is more crucial than ever. The Delaware Public Health District’s SAFE Delaware County Coalition is proud to host a CARFiT event, a national program designed to enhance the comfort and safety of older drivers. The event will take place from 1-3 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 24, at the Delaware Public Health District, located at 470 S. Sandusky St. in Delaware.
CARFiT is a collaborative initiative developed by AAA, AARP, and the American Occupational Therapy Association. It offers a comprehensive, yet quick, evaluation to ensure that older drivers and their vehicles are optimally matched for safety and comfort.
“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 Jackie Bain, CARFiT coordinator. “CARFiT provides older adults with the tools to understand and apply the safety features of their car.”
During the CARFiT event, trained volunteers will conduct a 12-point checklist with each participant. Key areas of focus include:
• Driver’s seat position: Ensuring it provides optimal visibility and control.
• Pedal reach: Verifying that the driver can easily and safely reach the pedals.
• Mirror adjustment: Checking that mirrors are positioned for maximum visibility.
Additionally, occupational therapists will be available to offer personalized consultations. They will provide valuable insights on maintaining and improving driving health, as well as information on local resources for exercise, nutrition, and other programs to enhance driving safety.
“It is critically important that mature drivers make safety a personal priority,” said Bain. “Driving today is more difficult than ever because of increased traffic congestion, longer commute distances, new technology and faster speeds. Older drivers can take important measures to mitigate the stress associated with driving.”
For more information about the CARFiT program, contact Bain at [email protected] or call (740) 368-1700. To make an appointment, visit delawarehealth.org/Forms/carfit. This event will also welcome walk-ins.
This story was submitted by the Delaware Public Health District.
