WCJB: Senior citizens use CarFit program to help them drive safely

Link to article: http://www.wcjb.com/content/news/Senior-citizens-use-CarFit-program-to-help-them-drive-safely-482975221.html

GAINESVILLE, Fla. A program called CarFit stopped by Oak Hammock in Gainesville today to show senior citizens how to drive safely on the roads.

The program was put together by AAA, AARP, and the American Occupational Therapy Association.

As seniors age, physical changes in vision, flexibility, and strength plays a role in driving.

Tools such as a leg lifter will provide senior citizens with arthritis help in getting out of their car and swivel seat cushions are provided for those who have difficulty seeing over the steering wheel.

The program director for the Occupational Therapy Assistant Program at the Florida State College in Jacksonville, Dr. Kimberly Fahlgren, loves helping the seniors drive safely through the program.

“I think it's a wonderful opportunity to bring communities together and driving safety is something that is a concern for every person, every age group, and every community should be involved with something like this,” Fahlgren said.

There will be another CarFit event October 18th at the Senior Recreation Center in Gainesville.