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NRMA Launches Older Driver Pilot Program In Dubbo


NRMA Launches Older Driver Pilot Program In Dubbo

Author: NRMA MediaDate: 11 March 2010

Dubbo has been chosen as the NSW city to pilot NRMA's 'CarFit' - an educational older driver program that assists older drivers to make comfortable and safe adjustments to their vehicle.

Ms Elin Schold-Davis - an occupational therapist from the USA specialising in older drivers - is in Dubbo today to help conduct a 'CarFit' workshop for Dubbo senior drivers.

NRMA Director Graham Blight said that ensuring the safe driving and mobility of our ageing population is a priority for the NRMA.

"The NRMA knows that the use of the private car is vitally important to older people for mobility, independence, lifestyle, social and health reasons," Mr Blight said.

"For many older people - particularly those living in regional and rural areas - the car is the only available form of transport. We know how important it is to retain a drivers licence.

"Older drivers over 75 are low-risk drivers when compared to other age groups - they wear their seatbelts, don't drink and drive and don't drive tired as often as other age groups. Despite this, they are over-represented in serious injury and fatality statistics - quite often because of the way they are secured in their vehicle."

Ms Schold-Davis, who has overseen the success of CarFit over the past five years in the USA said the program was designed to give older drivers a quick but comprehensive check of how well they 'fit' their vehicle.

"A trained professional asks participants simple questions and completes a 12-point CarFit checklist - a process that takes about 20 minutes and provides participants with a list of recommended car adjustments," Ms Schold-Davis said.

CarFit is an educational program created by the American Society on Aging and developed in collaboration with AAA (American Automobile Association), ageing organisation AARP and the American Occupational Therapy Association.

Some of the adjustments CarFit helps make include: Clear line of sight over the steering wheel - at least eight centimetres above the wheel. Plenty of room between your chest and the front airbag and steering wheel. A seat you fit in comfortably and safely - easy access to controls. Properly adjusted headrests - with the centre of the headrest against the back of your head, not against your neck. Easy access to brake pedals - without having to stretch too far. A seatbelt that holds you in position and remains comfortable as you drive.

NRMA Motoring & Services, March 2010.

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