The University of Tennessee Health Science Center Occupational Therapy Program and Concorde Career College Occupational Therapy Assistant Program invite Memphis seniors to take advantage of a free local CarFit event, scheduled for October 25, 2014, 11AM to 2PM at Clark Tower, 5100 Poplar Avenue, East Parking Lot. [Event details: https://www.car-fit.org/carfit/ViewEvent/4113/]
Recent survey findings show that senior drivers experience comfort and safety-related “fit” challenges with their cars including:
- Improper distance from steering wheel (59 percent);
- Inadequate views from side mirrors (32 percent);
- Improper seat height (28 percent) and improper head restraint height
(21 percent)
Encouraging news is that after a run through CarFit, a free driver safety program, 97 percent of participants’ issues were resolved.
CarFit, created through a partnership between AAA, AARP and the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), helps older drivers by assessing the “fit” of their cars for maximum safety and comfort.
CarFit is a 20 to 30 minute discussion, check-up and try-out of some simple changes to the driver’s car. All changes are recommendations only and are easily undone. While a waiver to participate is required, the check-up form only contains the make and model of the car; no information about the driver. The CarFit ends with a walk-around the car and a discussion about small device adaptations or the next steps for safe and comfortable driving.
Available slots are limited and a confirmed reservation is recommended.
For more information about this CarFit event or to reserve a time, please contact my co-host at Concorde Career College, Ms. Nicole Hood – Phone: 901-202-5428. For more information about CarFit visit www.Car-Fit.org
Thank you for your consideration,
Lawrence (Larry) Faulkner, PhD, OT/L, CAPS
Dept. of Occupational Therapy, Univ. of Tennessee Health Science Center
Ph: (901) 448-8393; Email: lfaulkner@uthsc.edu