Driver Safety Awareness Week Faces Challenges of Growing Numbers of Seniors


The car is the number one means of transportation. Separate people for their cars and they feel like they've lost their independence. But, as people get older and problems with sight and mobility set in, the question of safety arises.

December 5 through 9 is Older Driver Safety Awareness Week. The American Automobile Association (AAA) wants to help seniors become more aware about safety issues, especially since the population is advancing past the age of 65 with each advancing day. Also, with people living longer, the question of senior driving becomes more apparent.

Jake Nelson, director, AAA Traffic Safety Advocacy and Research told Torque News: "In less than 10 years, one in four licensed drivers will be age 65 and older." He continued, "which means that millions of American families will be working through this challenge."

Nelson continued: "Most families don't know where to turn for help so by partnering with the American Occupational Therapists Association (AOTA) during Older Driver Safety Awareness Week," he told the media source. "AAA hopes to raise visibility of resources and tools that will help families address real and perceived challenges associated with driving and aging."

The AAA is committed to keeping seniors, and advancing seniors, on the road as long as educational tools are in place, including a self-rating form for drivers and family member to assess if they can safely remain behind the wheel.

Active Lifestyle and Independent Living Residences actively promote safe driving measures.

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