Proper fit in car can save older drivers

AARP and the Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District Fire Corps group are sponsoring a CarFit program at Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire Department Station 701 on Saturday, August 10 from 1 to 4 p.m. This event is available to drivers of all ages. Even teenagers can benefit from the CarFit program.

Older drivers are often the safest drivers in that they are more likely to wear their seatbelts, and less likely to speed or drink and drive. However, older drivers are more likely to be killed or seriously injured when a crash does occur due to the greater fragility of their aging bodies. Older drivers are more physically fragile than their younger counterparts, and they’re generally less able to withstand the impact of a vehicular accident.

There are ways for drivers to adapt to their cars — and adjust their “fit” within them — in order to reduce their risk of injury during a crash.

CarFit is a free educational program created by the American Society on Aging and developed in collaboration with AAA, AARP and the American Occupational Therapy Association, to help address safety concerns related drivers. Checking to see that you and your vehicle fit well together can be as important to your safety as a mechanical checkup.

Trained technicians will be on hand to assess driver fit in the vehicle and make individual adjustments to find the best person-to-vehicle fit. These adjustments will help you to benefit from your vehicle’s safety features.

The event is by appointment only. Contact Sharon at 541-390-6075.