Occupational Therapy Students Help CarFit Assess Older Drivers’ Vehicles

The Occupational Therapy Program at Stony Brook University's School of Health Professions and its second-year doctoral (OTD) students helped assess older drivers and their cars through CarFit, a free educational program that ensures vehicles are properly adjusted for a driver's individual needs, promoting safety and comfort.

Working in collaboration with Jefferson's Ferry Independent Living, the sudents assessed 28 drivers on October 24. The event was held in celebration of World OT Day: Occupational Therapy in Action.

Developed by AAA, AARP, and the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), a CarFit checkup involves a 20-minute assessment by trained technicians who go through a 12-point checklist, covering everything from seat and mirror position to seat belt fit. The program provides specific recommendations and resources to help drivers enhance their safety.

"The value of having the ability to do a CarFit event focused on the opportunities to work with our community partners to fulfill a need and watching our OTD students apply their clinical knowledge," said Dale Coffin, clinical associate professor and chair of the Department of Occupational Therapy.

"CarFit is an important program in that it provides drivers with the means to be more comfortable and confident while driving," said Karen DeChello, vice chair and clinical assistant professor. "The outcome of the event is for participants to be as safe, independent and mobile in their community as possible, which is what a better vehicle 'fit' can provide."

DeChellor added that Jefferson's Ferry residents who participated provided feedback that they learned a lot and felt that CarFit events should be scheduled on an ongoing basis so that other residents could have the benefit of participating. They reported that they felt the CarFit program provided valuable information that drivers of all ages could benefit from, such as during drivers education classes.