Driving helps older adults stay mobile and independent. However, the risk of being injured or killed in a motor vehicle crash increases as you age. Approximately 500 older adults are injured every day in crashes, according to a 2011 NHTSA report. Thankfully, there are steps that older adults can take to stay safer on the roads.
St. Mary’s Health will host the new AARP Smart Driver Program in three separate four-hour classroom refresher courses:
- Wednesday, August 19, Noon to 4:00 p.m. in Meeting Room 2, St. Mary’s Health, located by taking the elevator to the lower level of the main hospital.
- Monday, September 14, Noon to 4 p.m. in Meeting Room 2, St. Mary’s Health, located by taking the elevator to the lower level of the main hospital.
- Tuesday, October 13, 12 Noon to 4 p.m. in Meeting Room 2, St. Mary’s Health, located by taking the elevator to the lower level of the main hospital.
The course will not require seniors to drive or take tests. Attendees will learn how to adjust driving due to age-related changes in vision, hearing, and reaction time. The course will also include information on aggressive drivers, defensive driving techniques, new traffic laws, latest safety technology, distracted driving, and more.
Auto insurance multiyear discounts may apply to AARP Driver Safety Program graduates. Attendees should consult their vehicle insurance agent. If eligible for insurance discounts, attendance for one full four-hour program is mandatory.
The fee is $15 for AARP members and $20 for non-members and includes a workbook and course certificate of completion. Seniors may pay by cash or check the day of the class. Please call Mary Raley, BSN, RN and instructor for the course at 812-485-6827 to enroll or for more information on the three separate offerings.
