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Monday, December 5, 2011

AAA Urges Families to Prepare for Aging Drivers

Today kicks off Older Driver Safety Awareness Week and with the first wave of America's baby boomers turning 65 this year, AAA is emphasizing the importance of communication to help keep senior drivers safe and mobile. "In less than 10 years, one in four licensed drivers will be age 65 and older," says Jake Nelson, director, AAA Traffic Safety Advocacy and Research. "Most families don't know where to turn for help so by partnering with the American Occupational Therapists Association during Older Driver Safety Awareness Week, AAA hopes to raise visibility of resources and tools that will help families address real and perceived challenges associated with driving and aging." AAA's senior driver safety and mobility site provides expert advice and research-based tools for senior drivers and their families. Tools on the site are designed to prompt conversations, assess abilities and improve the comfort and safety of older drivers. To help manage the effects of aging on driving ability, AAA also offers the following resources for older drivers:
- AAA Roadwise Review is a computer-based self-screening tool designed to assess a driver's functional abilities important to safe driving.
- CarFit and AAA's Smart Features for Mature Drivers help to enhance seniors' comfort and safety while driving.
- Safe Driving for Mature Operators classroom and online courses provide driver training to help address the changes caused by aging and how a driver may compensate.

For more information about Older Driver Safety Awareness Week, click here.