Seniors Receive a Fine Tune-Up before Starting Their Engines

Doesn’t it seem that everyday there are errands to run and places to go? Whether it’s the grocery store, post office, school or work, we find ourselves behind the wheel more often than not.

 

Driving is something that most people take for granted. You get in the car and go – right?  Well, that’s not always the case.  Imagine driving yourself everyday for 65 years, but suddenly, a health issue takes away that independence.

 

As the baby boomers are aging, there are more senior citizens taking to the roadways, but some of these aging adults should have their driving skills evaluated before starting their engines, not only for their sake, but also for the protection of others on the road.

 

If you’ve ever thought that a particular senior shouldn’t be on the road, there is a program available to make that determination. The Cleveland Clinic Driver Evaluation and Rehabilitation program at Lakewood Hospital provides an excellent opportunity for individuals and their families to assess safe driving skills. 

 

“Too often, people tell senior that they shouldn’t be on the road,” says Patrick Baker, an occupational therapist and Lakewood Hospital’s certified driving specialist. “Our goal is to help them return to independent driving as long as they are safe to do so,” adds Baker. As part of his job, Baker remains objective when he drives with seniors and provides recommendations that can put the driver and his family as ease.

 

For example, an elderly gentleman chose to take advantage of the program after recuperating from health issues for more than two years.  Determined to get back on the road, he sought assistance from the driving rehabilitation program because he wanted to ensure his safety and others. The satisfied student told us that he received helpful tips and encouragement from Baker, who made the testing process enjoyable for him. 

 

With a physician’s prescription, anyone can enroll in the program. Each driver will undergo go clinical tests for vision, depth perception, reaction time and cognitive function. Following the tests, the driver takes to the road for an evaluation on many variables such as stop signs, traffic lights, construction, turns and more.

 

So, if you are a senior citizen who may need assistance with your driving or have an aging relative, consider visiting the Cleveland Clinic Driver Evaluation and Rehabilitation program at Lakewood Hospital and gain back that independence.

 

For more information, call 216.521.2228.