CarFit Event Hosted By Intermountain Utah Valley Hospital Helps Protect Seniors

Staying safe while driving is more than just skills, habits, and attitude. While many think proper fit and use of safety equipment is only important for little passengers, but it is also vital for seniors in order for them to stay safe. To help, Intermountain Utah Valley Hospital, in conjunction with the Utah Highway Patrol and Timpanogos Regional Hospital, is hosting a free CarFit event on Friday, April 25 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Developed by AARP and the American Occupational Therapy Association, the CarFit program hosts events to help seniors ensure the proper fit inside their vehicle to ensure safety equipment will provide maximum protection to drivers and occupants.

“The CarFit event is much like a child passenger safety seat check,” said Karie Haws, Intermountain Utah Valley Hospital Trauma coordinator. “Even though older drivers are often the safest drivers because they are more likely to wear seat belts and less likely to speed or drive impaired, they are at higher risk for death or serious injury during a crash due to the increased fragility of our bodies as we age.”

CarFit is a program that helps older drivers find out how well they “fit” to their car. Participants will have the opportunity to drive up, and the technicians will assess how they can improve their fit to their vehicle. They will also provide feedback on additional options to help them with mobility in their vehicle and to increase their safety and the safety of others.

The free event will take place in the parking lot of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Chapel at 710 S. 800 E., Orem.

“We are excited to partner with Timpanogos Regional Hospital and the Utah Highway Patrol to bring this important event to our community,” said Haws. “There are other resources available at www.carfit.org, including free, guided on-line workshops that provides an in-depth look at key factors to ensure a proper fit with your vehicle.”