USD Occupational Therapy Students Help Senior Drivers Ensure Car Safety with CarFit Event
CarFit, a national program developed by AARP and the American Occupational Therapy Association, is designed to give a quick yet comprehensive check on how well a driver and their vehicle work together. At a CarFit event, trained volunteers complete a 12-point checklist, including adjusting the positioning of the driver’s seat and mirrors. An assessment takes approximately 20 minutes.
20 students in USD’s Doctor of Occupational Therapy program volunteered at the event. These students improved the configuration of over a dozen visitors’ cars. Their donated time demonstrates USD’s commitment to service and life-long community engagement.
“As we age, normal changes in vision, flexibility, strength and range of motion can affect how comfortably and safely we drive,” said Mackenzie Feldhacker, OTD, associate professor in the USD Department of Occupational Therapy. “CarFit gives older adults an opportunity to learn how simple adjustments to their vehicle can improve comfort, increase safety and help them get the most out of their vehicle’s built-in safety features.”
Feldhacker said taking a proactive approach to driving safety is especially important as today’s roadways become more complex. Older drivers can also check with their local AARP office to take a refresher course in driver safety or look into occupational therapy driving evaluation programs for individualized assessments and recommendations.
“Traffic volumes continue to grow, vehicles are equipped with more advanced technology and driving environments are constantly changing,” she said. “CarFit empowers mature drivers with practical strategies to reduce driving stress, improve vehicle fit and maintain confidence behind the wheel.”
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