Updated at 7:12 a.m., Thursday, December 20, 2007
Program to help Hawaii seniors better 'fit' their cars
Advertiser Staff
HONOLULU — To drive down the rate of crashes and injuries among older drivers, the Hawai'i State Department of Health Injury Prevention and Control Program will host a "CarFit" event from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 4, at Kapi`olani Community College. CarFit is a national program that uses trained professionals to help mature drivers "fit" their car better. The free educational program is sponsored by the American Automobile Association."We're offering this free service for the first time in Hawai'i to help older drivers, age 65 and above, increase their safety while driving," said Eric Tash, DOH Injury Prevention Program manager.
CarFit will use trained occupational and physical therapists to evaluate older drivers' ability to operate a vehicle safely by evaluating the "fit" of the driver to the vehicle. Assessments are based on many of the car's features and functions, including:
All drivers will receive a 15-minute, 12-point checklist to help them fit better and feel more comfortable in their car. These assessments can also help improve a driver's ability to drive more safely.
Evaluations from national CarFit surveys have shown that the most mature drivers who participated in the program made changes to improve the fit of their vehicle and enhance available safety features. They were also far more willing to discuss their driving abilities with family and healthcare providers.
The CarFit Program is available to the first 100 drivers, age 65 and above, who have a valid driver's license. To schedule an appointment, contact Kari Benes, DOH Injury Prevention and Control Program, at 586-5912 or e-mail kari.benes@doh.hawaii.gov.
