UNION, N.J. (May 22, 2014) - Kean University's Occupational Therapy Department will offer CarFit check-ups June 18th from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on the Nathan Weiss Graduate College Campus, 215 North Avenue, Hillside. CarFit is a national program that reviews how well senior drivers "fit" their cars for comfort, safety and mobility.
CarFit is developed by AAA, AARP and the American Occupational Therapy Association and is designed to give a quick, yet comprehensive check on how well an older driver and their vehicle work together. Appointments are required to participate in the program. To schedule a CarFit appointment, please call (908) 737-5850.
"As we age, changes in our vision, flexibility, strength, range of motion and even size and height may make us less comfortable and reduce our control behind the wheel," said Kean University Assistant Professor Dr. Claire Mulry, OTD, OTR, CAPS. "CarFit provides older adults with the tools to understand and apply the safety features of their car."
During the CarFit event, trained volunteers will complete a 12-point checklist with each driver. Among the items checked:
- Correct position of driver's seat
- Driver's ability to easily reach pedals
- Proper adjustment of mirrors
Occupational therapists are on hand also to provide a consultation, if needed, which will teach drivers how to maintain and improve aspects related to their driving health. The therapist 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.
"It is critically important that mature drivers make safety a personal priority," said Kean University Assistant Professor Dr. Jennifer Gardner, OTD, OTR. "Driving today is more difficult than ever because of increased traffic congestion, longer commute distances, new technology and faster speeds. Older drivers can take important measures to mitigate the stress associated with driving."
Older drivers can also check with their local AAA club or AARP office to take a driver safety refresher course for older road users or look into occupational therapy driving evaluation programs for individualized assessments and recommendations. CarFit represents an extension of those classroom programs, and an opportunity for older drivers to make sure their personal vehicles are adjusted to their needs.
KEAN UNIVERSITY'S OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY DEPARTMENT
Kean University offers a Master of Science program in Occupational Therapy accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). Department faculty, staff and graduate occupational therapy students are very active in the community. Later this year, the department will open a state-of-the-art occupational therapy clinic, Kean Community Cares, which will serve community needs and provide valuable training for students. For more information, please visit grad.kean.edu/ot.