Phoenix, Ariz. December 2, 2010. People over the age of 65 are the fastest growing population in the United States, and by 2030, one out of every five drivers will be amongst that age group. Therefore, in support of Older Driver Safety Awareness Week, Dec. 6-10, AAA Arizona is encouraging seniors and their families to take the first steps towards preserving safe driving years by having a discussion about overcoming age-related driving issues.
“Starting a conversation with an older loved one about their driving abilities can often be difficult, as it could appear to be a threat against their personal mobility and independence,” said Linda Gorman, director of communications and public affairs for AAA Arizona. “However, there are a variety of mature driver resources that can help make that conversation more constructive.”
In honor of Older Driver Safety Awareness Week and to help older drivers and their families find solutions to age-related driving challenges, AAA Arizona would like to highlight the following resources:
- Keeping the Keys –A free 90-minute workshop that explains the effects that age can have on driving, while revealing tips, tools and resources older drivers can implement to help safely prolong their driving independence. Upcoming workshops will be held on:
- Thursday, January 13, 10:30 a.m. – AAA Headquarters, 3144 N. 7th Ave., Phoenix
- Wednesday, January 20, 10 a.m. – Valley Manor, 5549 E. Lee St., Tucson
- Thursday, January 27, 2 p.m. – Apache Junction library, 1177 N. Idaho Rd., Apache Junction
Seniors and their adult children can register for a free workshop by calling (602) 241-2945 or (520) 258-0518, or by e-mailing publicrelations@arizona.aaa.com. Upcoming workshops are listed on the Keeping the Keys workshop page.
- CarFit – A free personalized assessment that offers mature drivers the opportunity check how well their personal vehicle “fits” them. Performed by trained CarFit technicians, the assessment checks to see that motorists have a clear line of sight, properly adjusted headrests, correct seat adjustments, easy reach to gas and brake pedals, and more.
Members may call (602) 241-2945 or e-mail publicrelations@arizona.aaa.com anytime to request a free CarFit assessment at their local branch office.
- AAASeniors.com – A one-stop online source that provides expert advice about how aging affects one’s ability to drive safely. The information and tools on the site are designed to aid in starting conversations, assessing abilities, and improving the comfort and safety of older drivers.
- Roadwise Review – A screening tool that measures functional abilities that are scientifically linked to crash risk amongst older drivers. To access the free online version, visit www.aaaseniors.com. To purchase the CD-ROM version, visit http://aaaazstore.com/pr/.
- DriveSharp – A computer software program that focuses on the visual systems in the brain that are essential to safe driving. It strengthens the brain’s ability to process what you see so that you can focus better, keep track of more on the road, and react faster while driving. AAA members can purchase DriveSharp for $69 by visiting www.drivesharpnow.com/az.
- Mature Driver Online Safety Course – An online course for drivers age 55 years or older that includes driving safety instruction and information on state specific motor vehicle laws. Offered by I Drive Safely, the course can qualify individuals for a discount on their auto insurance. AAA members can purchase the course for $14.95 online here.
AAA Arizona, the Arizona affiliate of AAA, provides automotive, insurance and auto travel services more than 800,000 Arizona members. Annually, AAA’s Emergency Road Service responds to more than 450,000 calls for help on the streets and highways of the state as well as providing insurance, travel, and financial services to AAA members and motorists. Since its founding in 1927, AAA Arizona has been a leading advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. In 2008, AAA was ranked the No. 1 “socially responsible” brand by Landor’s BrandAsset® Valuator.
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