With impairments and physical limitations, seniors can find their days of driving independently to be limited. To prevent that, state Sen. Scott Wilk and the California Highway Patrol will present a driving safety class for seniors at the SCV Senior Center on Oct. 25.
Called “Age Well, Drive Smart,” this two-hour course will give seniors instruction on basic road courtesy, driving safety, how visual and hearing limitations can affect one’s driving, how to avoid any hazardous road conditions and to improve their own driving skills.
“Keeping abreast of changing laws and how to best deal with weather, road conditions and crowded freeways is especially important as we age,” said Wilk in a statement. “Awareness of how changes to one’s vision and mobility can impact driving a car will keep our roads safer for everyone. I am pleased to be partnering with the CHP for this informative class.”
The course is designed for drivers 55 years old and above. Attendees will also hear updates on legislative changes on the rules of the road and vehicular equipment. The program does not include a driving course, however it will be instructed by seniors volunteering with CHP, said spokesman Josh Greengard, who will also monitor the class.
“It will be a peer-on-peer kind of class,” he said.
Similar to the Senior Center’s recent course hosted by the AARP, the center’s residents are grateful for courses like these, said Robin Clough, director of volunteers and recreation.
“Driving is just such a huge part of anyone’s life, this can help prolong their ability to drive and drive safely,” she said. “Some seniors might not even be aware that they face some
challenges.”
The CHP developed this course over the last six years as part of their senior driver/mobility program, according to their website. “Age Well, Drive Smart’s” mission is to limit the number of accidents and pedestrian injuries and deaths experienced by seniors and to help increase the number of alternate transportation options when driving is no longer a possibility.
This class is open to the public and will last from 2:30-5:30 p.m. Those who are interested can register with Senator Wilk’s district office by calling (661) 286-1471. Drivers should also check with their insurance company to see if they can apply for a policy discount by completing this program.
