CarFit for Older Drivers

CarFit is an educational program developed by the American Society on Aging in collaboration with AAA, AARP and the American Occupational Therapy Association.  The CarFit program offers older adults the opportunity to check how well their personal vehicles “fit” them.

As we age, changes in our vision, flexibility, strength, range of motion and even height may make us less comfortable and reduce our control behind the wheel. Engineers who design vehicles and roadways are making improvements to adapt to these demands, but older drivers themselves can take measures to better understand their vehicle’s safety features and achieve their safest “fit.”

One thing aging drivers can do to adapt to factors that may affect their driving is to make individual adjustments to find their best person-to-vehicle fit. These adjustments will help drivers benefit from their vehicle’s safety features by making them feel more comfortable and in better control behind the wheel. The CarFit program also provides information and materials on community-specific resources that could enhance their safety as drivers and/or increase their mobility in the community.

How Do I Become “CarFit”?

To find a Florida CarFit event near you, click here. Drivers can schedule an appointment for a CarFit check online or by calling the reservation phone number listed for the event.

At the CarFit event, a team of trained technicians and/or health professionals will work with you to ensure your vehicle fits you the best. CarFit staff will not make any changes to your personal vehicle, although they may recommend you make some adjustments to get you the right fit. The CarFit event takes about 30 minutes from the time you drive in until the time you leave.

At a CarFit check-up, a driver will complete registration information and then pull into a check point station. While the driver remains in the car, a team of trained technicians will cover the following topics:

• A clear line of sight over the steering wheel;
• Distance between the driver and the steering wheel;
• Seat comfort;
• Properly adjusted head restraints;
• Access and ease of use between gas and brake pedals; and
• Proper adjustment and comfort of seatbelt.