The first full week of December is Older driver Safety Awareness Week- this year it starts today, on December 4th. Older Driver Safety Awareness Week highlights the vital role that mobility and transportation play to keep older adults active in their communities. The Takoma Park Police Department has put together a few notes on the observance of this week.
Per Takoma Park Police: “Remaining active for as long as possible is essential to the independence of older adults. Driving a vehicle helps them to do this. As adults age, however, they experience vision and hearing loss. They may also experience a decline in cognition. These health issues make it unsafe to drive. Older drivers are twice as likely to have a medical problem that makes it difficult to travel.
According to recent statistics from the CDC, there are 44 million licensed drivers over the age of 65. In one year, nearly 7,700 drivers 65 and older died in motor vehicle accidents. More than 257,000 older drivers sustained injuries that required a trip to the ER. Drivers over the age of 75 have an even higher risk of dying or getting injured in a car accident.
Despite these statistics, seniors don’t have to be afraid to drive. They must exercise caution and good judgment. To stay safe while driving, older drivers should always wear their seat belts.
They should also follow these tips:
- Obey all traffic rules
- Never drive in inclement weather
- Avoid driving at night if possible
- Never drink and drive
- Plan the route in advance
- Get vision checked at least once a year
Seniors should also discuss with their doctor how their medical issue might affect their driving. They should also be aware of how the side effects of prescription medications affect their driving. Some medications cause drowsiness or confusion. Older drivers should never feel embarrassed to discuss these matters with their doctor and their loved ones.
A doctor or loved one may determine that it’s no longer safe for them to drive. In this situation, a senior will need to look for alternatives, such as taking public transit or getting a ride from friends and family. Some signs it might be time to quit driving include having too many near-crashes, getting lost while driving, slower reflexes, and difficulty seeing road signs. Knowing when to stop driving keeps everyone safe.
This is the perfect week to talk to your aging loved one about driver safety. Take a ride with them in the vehicle to ensure they are driving safely. If you notice them struggling as they drive, talk to them to see what they can do differently. Maybe all they need is to have their eyeglass prescription updated. Or they might need to make some adaptations to their vehicle. If necessary, you can advise them to take a driver improvement course specifically designed for older drivers.
The American Occupational Therapy Association initiated Older Driver Safety Awareness Week in 2009. The month of December was chosen as a way for families to discuss driver safety with their older loved ones during the holiday get-togethers.”
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FREE Shred Day
Join us at Lafayette Federal Credit Union for a Free Community Shred Day, an event dedicated to helping you protect your privacy and the environment! Bring your old bank statements, bills, medical records, and any other paper documents that need secure disposal, and we'll take care of them on the spot.
Why You Should Come:
Protect Your Privacy: Safely shred sensitive documents to help prevent identity theft.
Eco-Friendly: All shredded material will be recycled, supporting our commitment to sustainability.
Complimentary Breakfast: Enjoy a free breakfast on us--start your day right with good food and good company!
Exciting Giveaways & Prizes: Don't miss out on giveaways and be sure to enter our drawing for a chance to win one of four $100 gift cards.
This event is open to all! It's a fantastic opportunity to clean out those old documents cluttering up your home, safe in the knowledge that they will be disposed of securely. Plus, it's completely free!
Don't miss out on this chance to declutter safely, enjoy some free treats, and possibly win a great prize. We look forward to seeing you there, rain or shine!
For more information, contact us at www.lfcu.events/shred.
FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival
Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.
Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.
Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.
Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.
As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.
Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.
LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!
MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME
2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES
KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!
