AAA Web site can help senior drivers stay safe, mobile as long as possible

Today’s older Americans are healthier and more active than ever before– and want to remain so–and AAA’s new Web site can do just that by helping seniors drive for as long as safely possible and be mobile thereafter.

The site, which is located at www.AAAseniors.com, fills a major void by offering safety and mobility information, tools and resources for older drivers and their families. The site not only is geared toward seniors with tips to keep their driving skills sharp, but it can help adult children of seniors in initiating discussions about transitioning from driver to passenger.

There are tips for seniors on preparing their car to drive and on basic driving skills. Visitors also will find a variety of resources, from educational brochures to tips on choosing a vehicle and tools for assessing driving skills.

When seniors’ motor skills or perception begin to decline, the decision about whether they should continue to drive will often involve many people. The earlier families discuss the inevitable consequences of aging, the better they and their loved ones can agree to a plan.

Visitors to the site will find a step-by-step guide on how to begin a conversation with an older driver about developing a plan for giving up their keys.

Innovative program offers transportation for seniors

An innovative program in St. Charles, Mo., could prove to be the key to a world of freedom for seniors who’ve given up their keys.

The program, which is called ITNStCharles TM, is an affiliate of ITNAmerica® (the Independent Transportation Network), which was founded in 1996 in Portland, Maine. The initiative was developed because Americans are living longer and remaining more active, but they have a limited number of choices to maintain their mobility after they’ve stopped driving.

The non-profit program is a privately funded door-to-door transportation service for anyone over the age of 65. Rides are available for any reason, not just for essential shopping or doctor’s appointments, and participants ride in a private automobile with a trained driver. To date, there are 12 affiliates of the program across the country.

The program will begin in early September, and the cost to join is $96 per year. Once seniors join, they can call to schedule a ride 24 hours a day. The cost of a trip is $2.50 for pick up and $1.50 per mile.

Volunteer drivers also are being sought for the program. The service area includes: St. Charles, St. Peters, O’Fallon, Lake St. Louis, Cottleville, Wentzville, Weldon Spring and Dardenne Prairie. For details, call (636) 329-0888, or visit www.itnstcharles.org.

Think fast on the road with new program to cut crash risks

Seat belts and air bags improve driver safety, but the most important tool a motorist needs is a mind fit for the risks of the road.

The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety has joined with Posit Science, the leading provider of brain fitness programs, to enhance driver safety by improving drivers’ minds. The AAA Foundation is recommending a ground-breaking safety program called DriveSharp, which is an interactive series of game-like computer exercises shown to reduce crash risks.

DriveSharp consists of two computer-based exercises that improve reaction time, visual processing speed, useful field of view and driving ability. The technology in DriveSharp has been shown to cut crash risks by up to 50 percent and improve stopping distance by up to 22 feet at 55 miles per hour.

Every driver can benefit from DriveSharp, but it is particularly beneficial for drivers who are experiencing effects of aging, especially slower reaction times.

DriveSharp retails for $139 but is available to AAA members for $99. Simply click on www.drivesharpnow.com/mo to place your order. Shipping is $12.95, or you can download an electronic version to avoid the shipping fees.

VIN Etch can help deter vehicle theft

As an effective theft deterrent, the Club will offer window etching of your vehicle’s VIN (vehicle identification number) at several AAA offices in the region this spring.

The cost for the service is $30 for AAA members and $40 for non-members, including six etchings per car. AAA offers discounts on insurance for VIN Etching.

Call 1-800-AAA-ROAD ext. 6821 to make appointments at least 48 hours in advance of the below dates. Please have your VIN number handy when calling to make your appointment.

Dates and Locations