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Senior Driving Safety
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Statistics show that in 2003, about 1 in 7 licensed drivers was 65 or older. By 2029, it’s predicted that number will be 1 in 4. People over the age of 69 are currently 9 times more likely to die after a car crash. Reed Galin tells us about one safe driving program for seniors that’s meant to curb that trend. |
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SCRIPT:
(Locator: Alpharetta, Georgia)
Pat Oxford says driving a car has gotten more challenging in her many
years on the road.
Pat Oxford/Member, Mount Pisgah United Methodist Church: “We have
more traffic. I think people really don’t abide by the rules. And I’m
doing more defensive driving than I was taught years ago.”
Pat and other seniors are completing an AARP driver safety class at
Alpharetta First United Methodist Church near Atlanta. Church member Ron
Feldman instructs.
(Classroom instruction) “The vehicle you’re in should be in good
condition and so should you.”
The church feels the whole community will benefit.
Ron Feldman/Member, Alpharetta First United Methodist Church: “You know,
you’re tested once to learn how to drive and you’re forever certified.
The only problem is… you’re not the same driver you were 50 or 60 years
ago.”
(Classroom instruction) “Even one drink will affect your driving…”
The course addresses normal effects of aging on vision and hearing, and
the impact of medication on reaction times.
Sue and Harold Cook/Participants, AARP Driver Safety Program: (Sue) “I
didn’t realize you’re losing three seconds on your reaction time the
older you get.”
71-year-old Feldman says his peers welcome this practical advice.
Ron Feldman/Member, Alpharetta First United Methodist Church: “We are
all experienced in the process of aging, with a loss of our function,
reduction of our skills. Let’s correct those things, get ‘em taken care
of so that we can indeed drive safer for longer.”
Pat Oxford has taken the class more than once and is adjusting her
habits.
Pat Oxford/Member, Mount Pisgah United Methodist Church: “I was amazed
that more accidents
are caused by left-hand turns and people thinking they have the right of
way. I make a lot of right turns. I might go a little bit out of the
way, but I make a lot of right hand turns now.”
TAG:
Volunteers say community organizations like churches and hospitals
provide an ideal environment to offer the AARP Driver Safety Program
since these are the places seniors often turn for help.
In addition to the practical benefits of taking the $10 course, some
companies offer seniors a car insurance discount for completing the
program.
You can find more information at
www.AARP.org or you can call Alpharetta
First United Methodist Church at 770-475-5576.
Also, see:
Church helps senior adults brush up on driving
skills