Springfield – With 10,000 Americans turning 65 every day, mobility experts from the Springfield College Occupational Therapy department are hosting a safety program in East Forest Park, designed to help older drivers and their families find a better “fit” with their cars for comfort and safety, mobility experts. “CarFit” is a national program developed by AARP and the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) which is designed to give a quick, yet comprehensive check on how well an older driver and their vehicle fit together.
Faculty and students from the Springfield College Occupational Therapy Department will conduct “CarFit” check-ups on Wednesday, June 11, 9 a.m. to noon, at The Cedars Banquet Hall Parking Lot, 375 Island Pond Road in Springfield.
Dr. Beth Alicea-Torres and Dr. Andrea Coppola have partnered with the Forest Park and East Forest Park Civic Associations to promote this event. Please call (413) 748-3581 to register for the event by Monday, June 9.
At this event, trained graduate student volunteers will complete a 12-point checklist with each driver. Among the items checked are the:
Correct position of driver’s seat
Driver’s ability to easily reach pedals
Proper adjustment of mirrors
Licensed occupational therapists will be on hand to provide a consultation, if needed, that will teach drivers how to maintain and improve aspects related to their driving health. The therapists can also provide information to participants addressing individual needs, including information about local community resources on exercise, nutrition and other programs to help keep them safe on the road.
