Ventura – On Saturday, February 27 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., the new Veterans Home of California in Ventura will be teaming with driving experts, Occupational Therapists and trained technicians to hold a “CarFit” event -- a unique education program designed to help drivers 55 and over understand how to improve driving safety by ensuring their cars are properly adjusted just for them. A special team will lead drivers through a free 12-point CarFit checklist to ensure they understand how to use vehicle features properly.

CarFit is not a mechanical inspection of the car or a test of the driver’s ability. Instead, during each 20-minute CarFit session, trained technicians recommend personal vehicle adjustments and adaptations and offer resources that could enhance senior driving safety. Occupational Therapists will also be on hand to provide information on adaptive devices, such as pedal extenders and seat cushions. “The program’s purpose is to ensure drivers are correctly using vehicle devices, such as mirrors and seat belts, and are properly placed within their car, all with an eye toward safety,” said Marisue Eastlake, Director of the Oxnard RSVP. In Ventura County, RSVP is the driving force behind bringing the program to the west county. RSVP is a volunteer program that helps people age 55 and older find meaningful opportunities to serve within their community. Its services are free to both the senior adult and the non-profit community, where RSVP works with over 70 different agencies to place volunteers.

The CarFit event will take place at the Veterans Home of California in Ventura at 10900 Telephone Road, Ventura, CA 93004 (at Wells Road). The check-up is free, but appointments, made by calling 805-659-7501, are required. Each appointment takes approximately 20 minutes. “We are delighted to be offering this free service to our community at the new Veterans Home of California,” added Administrator Brenda Manke. “This is the beginning of just one of the great services the Home will be offering to the community and its seniors.” About 60 senior drivers attended the 2009 CarFit events.

The American Society on Aging created CarFit in collaboration with American Association for Retired Persons (AARP), the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Occupational Therapy Association. The national program is the first to offer adults 55 and over the opportunity to check how well their personal vehicles fit them. To learn more about CarFit, please log on to their website at www.car-fit.org. Or please call 805-385-8019.