Multiple Programs Focus on Safety Behind the Wheel

With months of wet and icy roads ahead, now is the ideal time for drivers of all ages to review their safe driving skills and check out the many available programs and resources.

AARP’s Driver Safety Program is a good place to start.  It teaches participants how to adjust their driving to age-related changes in vision, hearing and reaction time and covers everything from new traffic laws to defensive driving techniques.

Available as an eight-hour refresher course from trained AARP volunteer instructors in classrooms and communities across the state, or online in the comfort of your home at the time of your choice.

Successful completion may get you discounts on car insurance.

“This program is a way to get invaluable safe driving tips and information, and we know it can help save lives and money,” says Betty-Coe R. de Broekert, AARP Driver Safety Program State Coordinator for Oregon.

To find a classroom course nearest you, use our site locator or call toll-free, 866-231-0216.  Or register for the online course version at www.aarp.org/families/driver_safety/driver_safety_online_course.html.

Older Oregonians can further enhance their safety on the road by participating in CarFit, a community-based educational program created by the American Society on Aging in collaboration with AARP, the American Automotive Association (AAA) and American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). 

Trained volunteers help ensure participants “fit” – things from being properly seated in the vehicle  to correctly using car’s safety features.  Through the completion of a simple 12-point checklist that takes less than 20 minutes, drivers receive recommended car adjustments and adaptations as well as list of resources in their local community to help them continue driving safely as long as possible.

Learn more at http://www.car-fit.org/.

And sooner or later, physical or mental limitations or conditions will impact an older individual’s ability to drive safely.  To aid those who suspect a parent or loved one should no longer be driving, AARP offers “We Need To Talk” seminars, highlighting some do’s and don’ts when talking to someone about giving up the keys.

The program was developed based on ongoing research into aging and driving done by The Hartford and the MIT AgeLab.  It gives practical tips and guidance on how to recognize the warning signs and develop a plan to begin talking about driving retirement.  Seminar participants are also provided with information on local alternative transportation resources to help Mom and Dad stay connected and remain independent even after driving is no longer a safe option.

To schedule a “We Need to Talk” seminar in your community, call 866-554-5360 toll-free or e-mail oraarp@aarp.org.  For a free copy of the “We Need to Talk Materials,” visit the www.thehartford.com/talkwitholderdrivers or e-mail oraarp@aarp.org.

For those with impairments or medical conditions that may impact their driving abilities, Oregon DMV’s Medically At-Risk Program can be a valuable resource.  The program’s purpose is to identify and address drivers whose medical conditions, impairments, or driving behaviors affect their ability to drive safely – regardless of age – through mandatory and voluntary reporting.

For individuals who may need to retire from driving, the program also offers a variety of materials about alternative transportation options.

Visit http://www.oregon.gov/ODOT/DMV/ATRISK/ for more information.

Related Articles:
Car Safety Tips
Driver's Ed for Grownups
Have you been CarFitted lately? 
Shifting Gears in Later Years – Resources for Mature Drivers and their Families
Way Back When
When Is It Time to Quit Driving?

Other Resources:
AARP Driver Safety Program
For more information or to locate a course nearest you, call 1-888-227-7669 toll-free or visit www.aarp.org/drive.

CarFit
A program and 12-point checklist about designed to help older drivers find their best fit in their vehicle. 

“We Need to Talk” Seminars
A guide and program on how to approach the tough discussion of giving up the car keys.

Oregon DMV’s Medically At-Risk Program

Finding Transportation Options
Local Area Agency on Aging & Disabilities or Network of Care