carfit technician training...technician training. this position can be managed by a volunteer from...

CarFit Technician Training

The CarFit Manual

Your manual and this presentation were prepared to train you to participate in CarFit events as a Trained Technician

Trained Technicians are eligible to become CarFit Event Coordinators by attending an additional training class designed specially for Event Coordinators

You must successfully complete a CarFit event to be certified a CarFit Technician

Today’s Agenda

1. Program Objectives & Background

2. The CarFit Event

3. CarFit Roles & Positions

4. Review of the CarFit Checklist

Break

5. Lab Portion: Outside

6. Instructions and Plan for CarFit Event

Program Objectives

Promote continued safe driving and mobility among older drivers by focusing attention on safety, comfort and fit

Create an open environment that promotes conversations about driving

Provide information, EDUCATION, and community-based resources to older drivers in a non-threatening, quick, and easily accessible manner

Program Background

Created by the American Society on Aging in collaboration

with:

AAA

AARP

American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA)

Launched nationally in 2006, CarFit is available in 46

states, and abroad in Canada, Australia and New Zealand

This initiative depends on the efforts of volunteers to work

effectively

Why do we need a program like CarFit?

People over 65 are the fastest growing age

group

By 2030, there will be 58.9 million people age

65 and older— that’s 1 in 4 drivers over 65

Personal mobility is critical for healthy aging

Our bodies change as we age—ill fitting

vehicles can make it uncomfortable and unsafe

to drive

Program Background

CarFit is a community-based program that

focuses on driver fit with their vehicle

Primary focus of the program is to provide

active drivers with safety information and

education

CarFit is NOT an evaluation for ability to drive No Pass/Fail messages

Information is confidential

Program Background

CarFit check-ups are designed for community-based settings

Senior/community centers, church or school parking lots

Hospitals and health centers

AAA or AARP offices

Uses a trained team of volunteers & health professionals

Appointments are designed to take approximately 20

minutes to asses the “fit” between the driver and the vehicle

The central point of the program is the 12 point CarFit

checklist

Roles Within CarFit

There are four roles within CarFit for volunteers

Roles: Instructors

Instructors have responsibility to communicate with

national organization staff--as leaders in CarFit, they

oversee the program’s integrity and consistency

Instructors receive specialized training and can teach

Technicians and Event Coordinators

Roles: Event Coordinators

Event Coordinators hosts CarFit events, manage

logistics, and provide training to the volunteers

and Technicians participating at the CarFit event

Event Coordinators receive additional training and

are able to train Technicians

Roles: Technicians

Technicians participate in and follow the direction of the

Event Coordinator overseeing the CarFit event

After completing today’s training and a CarFit event, you

will be certified as a Technician

Technicians work in teams and review the 12 point

checklist with participants

You must complete a CarFit event after training to be

certified as a Technician

Roles: OT’s or DRS

Occupational Therapists or Driver Rehabilitation

Specialists bring an understanding of aging and medical

conditions to the conversation

OT’s or DRS’s are also Technicians, but their role at a

CarFit event is to address any concerns that may have

come up during the checklist review and provide

information and resources on issues related to driver

safety during the check-out station of the event

Roles: Untrained Volunteers

Volunteers that are not trained to conduct a

vehicle check using the 12 point checklist may

also participate in an event

Untrained Volunteers can assist with traffic

direction, Check-In, and serve as runners

Education is Key…

DO NOT make adjustments for the driver…only the driver

should make the adjustment

If you demonstrate a recommended position, the driver is to

make the change if they choose to do so

A good rule of thumb: the driver is the last person to touch the

wheel, head restraint, seat, etc

This is a public educational event—our role is to educate, not

make changes for the driver

Following the demonstration, the driver can choose to return

the settings to the original position, or keep the new

adjustment—provide them with these options

Keep in Mind…

As driver’s age, they may need new strategies or

adaptive tools to ensure their safety and comfort

Age related changes can have an impact on driving

safety; our goal is to provide education and make

participants feel comfortable

Speak slowly and clearly, and make eye contact with

the participant

Provide clear transitions and offer cues about what

you will discuss

Be patient! Allow the driver the time they need to

understand and perform each task

The CarFit Event

The checklist is the primary tool for conducting a Carfit check

What we review on the checklist…

Safety belt use

Steering wheel tilt

Head restraint setting

Line-of-sight over the steering wheel

Positioning to airbag

Positioning to gas and brake pedals

Mirror adjustment/blind spot check

Operation of parking brake and ignition key

Operation of Vehicle Controls

Working under the supervision of the Event Coordinator,

trained Technicians work in teams of two to conduct the CarFit

check using the checklist

The CarFit Event

How is a CarFit Check-Up Conducted?

A trained team of community volunteers and health

professionals review each checklist item with drivers

while seated in their own vehicle

At the end of the 12 point check, an Occupational

Therapist discusses areas of concern with the

participant

Appointments take approximately 20 minutes and

asses the “fit” between the driver and the vehicle

The CarFit Event

Carfit events range in size, based on availability of

sites, volunteers and community need

A CarFit event can be geared to any size—from a

single car, to a large community event that serves

dozens of drivers

CarFit can be customized to almost any location where

a parking lot can be safely secured for use

The event site should have an easily accessible

parking lot with at least one separate entrance and exit

Ideally, this space will have shade/covered area and

easy access to restrooms

The CarFit Event

Participants are routed to three stations:

Check-In: Staffed by Technicians or volunteers

Check up: Staffed by Technicians in teams of two

Check out: Staffed by the Occupational Therapy Practitioner

Each Technician must be aware of the site layout and

designated stopping places

We’ll take a closer look at the three stations in just a

minute…

The CarFit Event

The CarFit Event: Setting Up

A tent is great for protection from

the sun and rain and may be

available at your event

Tables for paperwork

Paperweights for windy days

Chairs for resting

Snacks and water for volunteers

and participants

Available restrooms for volunteers

and participants

Yellow signs with black lettering are great for visibility

The Event Coordinator is responsible for all signage, but may

assign a member of staff to “manage” the placement of signs

Signs should note the following:

CarFit Today (placed in road)

Welcome to CarFit

Entrance signs

Check-In signs

Signs at each check up station

Sign at the check out

Exit signs

Don’t forget to collect all of the signage at the end!

The CarFit Event: Signage

The CarFit Event: Safety First

Event Coordinators receive special training

that covers parking lot safety and site

logistics

We use cones to map out the parking lot

and lanes

Safety vests for volunteers are required for

visibility…be bright, be seen!

The Event Coordinator may delegate a

member of staff to assist with the

placement/collection of cones either before

or at the completion of the event

Traffic Direction & Check-In

I’m looking for

the shopping

plaza

Why a Traffic Director?

As participants arrive, the Traffic Director guides drivers to the

Check-In area and helps with all aspects of traffic flow

This is the first person to greet the participant—they should be

familiar with the event, local area, and names of nearby roads

The Traffic Director should have good communication skills and

enjoy talking to people

This person can be a non-trained volunteer from the community

(senior volunteer, local law enforcement, cadets, etc)

I’m looking

forward to learning

something new

today!

Safety Note for Traffic Directors

Always wear your safety vest to be seen

Don’t try to wave in cars from a public street

Give simple, clear direction

Overemphasize what you want drivers to do

Never work against traffic controls…if there is a STOP sign,

don’t tell people to “go” until after they’ve come to a

complete stop

Don’t multi-task! Stay alert and omit distractions

Check-In Station

Enter

Exit

Check Up Station

#1

Check Up Station

#2

Check Out

Check In

Check-In Station

Location: Far enough into the site that cars are not

blocking the roadway

Check-in personnel greets participants, confirms

appointments (managing participants without

appointments according to the Event Coordinator’s

plan) and completes all paperwork

Check-in personnel are not required to attend the

Technician Training. This position can be managed by

a volunteer from the Host agency, for example, only

performing Check-in duties

Check-In Station

Responsibilities at Check-in include:

Reviews and collects signed Waiver Form, placing it in

marked folder or bin

Scans for the safety belt check and notes on the

checklist

If available, offers the participant a bottle of water

Hands driver the clip board with checklist attached, and

directs the driver to proceed with caution to the check

up area (or safe holding location)

Check-In Station: Seatbelt Check

TAKE NOTE!! The first person to observe the

driver at Check-In should fill out this portion of

the checklist (located in top right-hand corner)

DATE PARTICIPANT # VEHICLE MAKE, MODEL & YEAR 1/6/2013 006 2012 Hyundai Sonata

________________________________________________________ Was driver wearing seatbelt when they arrived at event? Y N

Check-In Station: Waiver Form

Waiver form must be completed in order

for the driver to participate—no

exceptions

If the participant refuses to complete the

waiver, politely explain they cannot go

through the event today, or alert your

Event Coordinator so they can speak to

the participant and inform of this policy

This form protects the CarFit program,

the event and facility, Event Coordinator

and staff/volunteers from liability

Should be retained in a folder for the

Event Coordinator to keep in files

Check-In Station: Model Release Even though the waiver contains an

optional photo waiver, your Event

Coordinator or the host facility may require

an additional model release form if media

is present

The driver does not need to sign this form

and has the right to decline to be on

camera

If the participant declines to be on

camera:

Place a Post-It note on their windshield so

the media and check up personnel are

aware

Notify your Event Coordinator, so they can

ensure the driver’s wishes are met

A Note About Media…

Event Coordinators or designated PR representatives are the only

staff at the event authorized to speak to media

If the Event Coordinator has granted access for staff to speak to

the media, this will be planned in advance and staff will be notified

Check-In Station

Sample Script/Role Play

Check-Up Station

Enter

Exit

Check Up Station

#1

Check Up Station

#2

Check Out

Check In

Check-Up Station

Technicians use the 12-point checklist to examine the

driver’s positioning in their vehicle during the check-up

We provide information and educate on proper positioning

in vehicle

Volunteers work in two-partner teams

# Volunteers + size of lot = multiple check-up stations

Issues needing additional education are brought to the OT

or DRS’s attention for review at check out

If a driver becomes upset, or has questions you cannot

answer, simply circle the √ for the OT to address

Check-Up Station

Briefly introduce yourself and organization when driver

pulls into your station

Make them feel comfortable and welcome

Have the driver:

Put the vehicle in park

Roll down passenger & driver windows

Turn off the engine

Reminder! This process is to take 20 minutes, so be

friendly, but punctual

How to Conduct a CarFit Check

Now we will review the 12 items on the checklist

and how to conduct a vehicle check

Time will be provided today to practice what you’ve

learned in teams with the use of vehicles outside

Tip: The owner’s manual typically provides detail about the location and operation of vehicle controls

Using the √ mark on the Checklist

The √ mark feature on the Checklist is to be used

to notify the occupational therapist of items that

need further attention at Check-out

Below is an example of a Checklist properly

completed in which the driver’s safety belt was

worn correctly, but caused discomfort

Discomfort with belt

Using the √ mark on the Checklist

Circling the √ is not reserved solely for serious safety

concerns, but is also used as an opportunity to make a

driver more comfortable or knowledgeable about a “fit”

related issue

If the professional services of an occupational therapist or

DRS might be of benefit, materials on local driving

programs and safety resources will be shared at checkout

Item 1: Number of Drivers

What we check: If others – such as a spouse or partner

also drive the vehicle

Why we check: Drivers of the same car may require

different adjustments to the seat, steering wheel, wheel tilt

and mirrors for visibility and comfort

Item 1: Number of Drivers

If there are additional passengers, invite them to either

wait in the waiting area, or stay in the vehicle to observe

the check-up

Ask the participant if there is more than one driver of the

vehicle

If yes, ask if they are participating today

If no, encourage them to enroll their spouse/friends in a

future CarFit event

Explain that drivers of the same car may require different

adjustments for optimal safety

Item #1


Item 2: Safety Belt Check

Discomfort with belt

What we check: If the driver consistently uses the

vehicle’s safety belt and uses it correctly

Why we check: This is an opportunity to help drivers

understand the life saving benefits of the safety belt

Item 2: Safety Belt Check

Safety Belt: Also more commonly referred to as the seat

belt (both terms are correct)

Note comments from Check-in about use

If the driver is wearing the seat belt, ask if this is a habit

Provide education on why it is important to wear the seat

belt on every single ride

Item 2: The Safety Belt

Explain the lifesaving benefits of wearing the vehicle’s

seat belt

Reduces ejection

Helps keep person in place in the event of a crash

Helps absorb some of the energy forces from the

crash by allowing passenger to “ride-down” the

crash

It’s the law!


Observe if the belt is being used correctly (over the shoulder--mid

collar bone, and low on the hips)

If placed behind the back or under the arm, injury may result

Ask the driver if the seat belt is comfortable and if they normally

use it

If the driver says it is uncomfortable or cutting across their neck,

make a note for the OT

Make the driver aware of the possible adjustments, show them

where they can adjust the safety belt

It is then the driver's choice to apply changes


Also observe any problems the driver has in

turning/reaching for the safety belt and buckling it

correctly

Have the driver buckle & unbuckle the safety belt

several times

Make sure it retracts completely before re-buckling

If there are problems, note and refer to the OT to

address at check out

Take Initial Measurements

What we check: At this point, the Technician will take the initial

measurements of the driver-to-vehicle fit for steering wheel position

and line of sight by measuring the distance between the chest and

steering wheel, and the line of sight above the steering wheel

Why we check: Taking an initial measurement will provide us with

a guide as we check items #3-#6 on the checklist

How To Take Measurements Distance between chest and steering wheel:

Either give the driver the ruler and ask them to do the measuring, or

do the measurement yourself

If taking measurement for the driver, use good judgment and be

careful to protect their personal space

To get this measurement, ask driver to look straight ahead and

place one end of the ruler/measuring tape about the middle of the

participants chest and place the other end on the middle of the

steering wheel

Note how many inches are

between the participant

and the steering wheel

in the space provided

How To Take Measurements

Line-of-Sight above steering wheel:

Ask the driver to look straight

ahead with hands on wheel in normal

driving position, and position yourself

at the driver’s eye level

Ask the driver to hold a ruler in a straight, horizontal line from the

eye level to the windshield

Using a second ruler, measure the distance from the first ruler to

the top of the steering wheel

Note both measurements on the checklist before proceeding

to item #3

Item #2


Item 3: Steering Wheel Tilt & Airbag Position

Made recommendation

What we check: The steering wheel should be tilted at an

angle that allows the driver to have good forward vision,

unobstructed view of dashboard, and good control of the

wheel

Why we check: Many drivers do not know how to adjust

the tilt of the steering wheel and don’t understand the

clearance required between drivers and airbags

Item 3: Steering Wheel Tilt

Explain the reasons why the tilt of the steering wheel is

important

The airbag should be positioned pointing to the

driver’s chest, not their face, to minimize injury in the

event of a crash

The steering wheel should be at least 2 inches above

thigh to prevent injury to the legs

Driver should be able to reach the wheel easily, with the arms slightly bent for comfort

Item 3: Steering Wheel Tilt

Look at steering wheel angle

Driver should be able to see gauges and speedometer

Based on the initial measurement, is the steering wheel

a safe distance from the driver?

10+ inches from chest to wheel is ideal for optimal safety

in the event of a crash

Item 3: Position to Airbag

Hands should be positioned at 9 and 3 o’clock OR at

the 8 and 4 o’clock positions to prevent injury to the

arms if the airbag deploys…most drivers are

accustomed to the “old way” of 10 and 2

Note! Some newer vehicles have hand controls—in this

case, the 8 and 4 o’ clock position is preferred

Don’t forget to provide education and review how to make adjustments if they are needed

Item #3


Item 4: The Head Restraint

What we check: If the driver’s head restraint is adjusted

properly

Why we check: A properly adjusted head restraint

protects drivers from whiplash and other injuries,

particularly if the vehicle is rear-ended

Item 4: Head Restraint

Check to see if the vehicle has an adjustable head

restraint and note Yes/No on the checklist

Educate on proper positioning for the head restraint

Explain that the recommended position is to optimize

protection in a crash, prevent whiplash and protect the

head/neck

Item 4: Head Restraint

Measure the distance from back of head

to head restraint for the driver

Height: Should be mid-ear

Distance: 2 ½ inches or less

from back of head (touching is fine)

Show driver how to reposition the

head restraint

Driver then chooses to make the

Adjustment to the head restraint

Item #4


Item 5: Distance to Steering Wheel

What we check: Based on possible adjustments made

in #3, the measurement will be taken again to ensure a

safe distance between the chest and steering wheel

This is the second measurement, so it could differ from

the first measurement

Why we check: If the driver is too close, or cannot reach

the pedals, they may need to move their seat

10

Once adjustment was made, driver could no longer reach the pedals


Explain to the driver why it’s vital to sit a safe distance from the

airbag

There should be at least 10 inches from your chest or to the

center of the steering wheel

You need this clearance because when the airbag deploys, it

fills with air and moves toward you like a big balloon

It only stays inflated for a quarter of a second, and the airbag

cushions the driver as it deflates

It deploys so quickly that many drivers don’t realize it until the

airbag is already deflated

It’s job is to protect you, but we need to ensure you are sitting

a safe enough distance away


Use the ruler to take the second measurement, or allow the

driver to take the measurement

In addition to sitting at least 10 inches back from the airbag,

the driver should be able to position their seat so there is no

slack in the safety belt or difficulty in reaching the pedals

If an optimal adjustment cannot be made by moving the seat,

make a note for the OT to address at check out

Item #5


Item 6: Line of Sight

4

What we check: If the driver has the proper line of sight over

the steering wheel for an adequate view of the road ahead

Again, this is the second measurement, so it could differ from

the first measurement

Why we check: Drivers may not realize that at least 3 inches

above the top of the steering wheel is ideal for a safe, straight

line of sight


Explain to the driver why a good line of sight is needed for

safety

If the driver has a proper line of sight over the steering

wheel, they have an adequate view of the road ahead

Experts agree that at least 3 inches above the top of the

steering wheel is ideal for a safe, straight line of sight


Use the method from earlier to measure the distance from the

first ruler to the top of the steering wheel

Record the distance in the space provided on the checklist

If the line of sight is less than 3 inches, suggest a seat

adjustment or steering wheel tilt adjustment

DO NOT adjust the seat for the participant, let the driver make

the adjustment

If adjustments to the seat and wheel tilt do not bring the driver’s

line of sight to 3 inches or more, note for the OT to address at

check out

Item #6


Things To Consider… Remember: When one adjustment is made, it may alter the

settings for another part of the vehicle

Example: Participant was sitting too close to the airbag, but

by moving the seat, they can no longer reach the pedals

Note for OT: If there is difficulty in finding an optimal fit,

always note for the OT to address at check out

Best Practice: The Event Coordinator is available to come to

your station to assist as needed—always involve the EC if

you feel uncomfortable or have questions regarding a

particular vehicle or check

Item 7: Position to Gas/Brake Pedal

What we check: If the driver can easily and effectively

depress the gas pedal without reaching, and if they can

move between gas and brake pedals without difficulty

Why we check: This check is an opportunity to make

drivers aware of safe, non-fatiguing pedal use

.


Caution: Be sure the engine is OFF

Ask driver to place hands on wheel and look straight

ahead at road

Position yourself so you can see the driver’s right foot

Is the ball of foot on the pedal? Can the driver reach

easily?

Driver should not strain to reach the pedals


Explain to the driver why we check this

Certain footwear – such as thick soles, high heels and

flip flops – can affect safe movement between pedals

Drivers should not need to fully extend their legs or

use their toes to depress the gas pedal through the

full range

Reaching in this manner can fatigue the leg muscles


With hands on the wheel, looking straight ahead, ask

the driver to move their foot from the gas to brake pedal

Is the driver able to move between the gas and brake

pedals without issue, using the “pivot” method?

Could the driver benefit from an adjustment? If so,

provide education

With your partner, check if the brake lights are in

working order

Note any areas for the OT to address at check out

Item #7


Questions on 1-7?

Item 8: Mirror Adjustments

Driver could benefit from additional info on mirror adjustment

What we check: If the driver is able to use the

rearview and side view mirrors effectively to check blind

spots

Why we check: For older drivers, many crashes

involve merging and lane changing; proper use of

mirrors or the use of special mirrors can make these

maneuvers safer

Item 8: Mirror Adjustments

Work in pairs on items #8 and #9

This is the most involved part of the checklist and will

take the most time

First, observe if the vehicle has mirrors in good condition

(clean, not broken)

Item 8: Mirror Adjustments Explain to the driver the importance of proper mirror adjustment

Many drivers have not been instructed to adjust mirrors correctly

and some drivers get into the bad habit of not using mirrors

We have already checked forward field of vision; equally important

are good side and rear views

Using the side view and rearview mirrors effectively requires that

each mirror be adjusted properly

The Blind spot Glare Elimination (BGE) Method can be

demonstrated during this item

If the driver is not able to obtain appropriate views through

adjusting mirrors, the OT can recommend solutions

Item 8: Side View Mirrors

Proper Adjustment:

It allows the driver to see along side and to the rear of

the vehicle

The traditional way adjusts the side mirror to just see

the edge of the vehicle

Mirrors are designed to warn the

driver when another vehicle is

entering the vehicle’s space cushion

Item 8: Checking Side Mirrors

Driver should have hands on wheel, in normal

driving position

Partner places himself even with the rear

bumper, and 3 feet to the side

Using only the mirrors, ask the driver to identify

the cue (the number of fingers your partner is

holding up at hip-level)

Item 8: Rearview Mirror

Proper Adjustment: Driver should be able to see

the edges of the rear window in the rearview mirror

Function: Rearview mirrors allow the driver to see

behind the vehicle

Item 8: Checking Rearview Mirror

At the rear of car, partner stands 10 feet back

Partner holds up 1, 2 or 3 fingers near hip-level

Driver identifies in rearview mirror while facing

forward with hands on wheel in normal driving

position

Item 8: Checking Blind Spots

Checking for Blind Spots Do this exercise to test blind spots

Driver seated facing forward,

hands on wheel, uses side mirrors

Volunteer begins at starting point

at rear of car, then walks forward

slowly

Driver identifies when volunteer

“disappears” into blind spot using

side view mirror

Repeat this process with the other

side view mirror

If mirrors were not sufficient in previous exercise, adjust

sideview mirrors using Blindspot Glare Elimination (BGE)

method:

For the driver’s side mirror, participant leans the left side of their

head against the driver’s side window and sets the mirror so

they can just see the side of the car

For the passenger’s side mirror, participant leans to the right so

their head is in the center of the car

and sets the mirror so it has

the same view

Confirm the new setting is correct

by repeating the blind spot check in

previous exercise

Item 8: BGE Method

Item #8


Reminder! Education is Key…

Changing mirror settings requires practice and

familiarization

It is recommended that mirror adjustments should be

done in gradual increments

Suggest home use of written handout as a guide for the

participant

If driver chooses to make adjustments, remind them that

the “feel” may be unfamiliar when they leave the check up

Those who would benefit from additional instruction about

mirrors should be referred to the OT

Item 9: Neck Mobility/Blind Spots

What we check: If the driver is able to identify visual

blind spots on both sides of the vehicle

Why we check: Some drivers do not have the mobility

of their head, neck or trunk to perform this vital task, and

an inability to check blind spots adequately when merging

and lane changing contributes to collisions


Explain to the driver that neck mobility and the

prevention of blind spots go hand-in-hand

Goal is to check for mobility in neck and check for

blind spots

Many drivers check only rearview and side view

mirrors and these mirrors may not be adjusted for the

best visibility

Visual awareness also depends on physical

ability/flexibility to rotate the neck and trunk


With hands on wheel in normal driving position, ask the

driver to turn to look at your partner (you want to be in their

blind spot at this point, so you may need to adjust where

you’re standing)

Ask the driver to identify the number of fingers partner is

holding up

Repeat the process on the right side

Note of caution! You are observing flexibility, there is no

need for the driver to repeat head turning multiple times

(doing so can lead to injury)

Note if the participant has any difficulty moving their

neck for the OT to address at check out

Item #9


Item 10: Ignition Key/System

What we check: If the driver is able to properly use the

ignition key or system

Why we check: There may be new techniques or

adaptive devices that improve the comfort and safety of

drivers experiencing difficulties


Explain to the driver why we check the ignition system

We are going to look at how they turn the engine on,

with a key or keyless system

Our goal is to identify any problems or discomfort they

may experience when performing this task


If the key is in the ignition, ask the driver to remove it

If not, ask the driver to put the key in the ignition and then

remove it

Ask the driver to put the key into the ignition and start the

vehicle

Use same method for keyless ignition

Ask driver if they have any difficulty with this task

Note any problems with mobility in the hand, wrist and

fingers that the OT can address at check out

Item #10


Item 11: Vehicle Controls

What we check: If the driver has difficulty operating the

secondary controls: wipers, turn signal, horn, and parking

brake

Why we check: There may be new techniques or devices

that improve safety and comfort


Explain to the driver:

Item 11 is done with the parking brake engaged and

engine on

Working in pairs, you will note any equipment failures

such as burnt out lights

You will note if there is any difficulty operating the

secondary controls: wipers, turn signal, horn, and

parking brake


After going through the points in item 11, note any issues

for the OT to address at check out

Review the checklist for any missed items, and then ask

driver to sound their horn—it’s fun for the participant and it

alerts staff that a vehicle is on the move

Note on the checklist if the horn is in working order

Hand driver the clipboard and direct them to the check out

area

Item #11


Check Out Station

Enter

Exit

Check Up Station

#1

Check Up Station

#2

Check Out

Check In

This is the

last step

for the

participant

The OT or DRS conducts a vehicle

walk-around at check out using item

#12 on the checklist

Reviews the other checklist items and

addresses any concerns the

Technician has noted

Demonstrates adaptive device items

in the OT gadget kit

Discusses community resources and

reviews items in goody bag

Item 12: Vehicle Walk-Around

Key holder and walking cane

A few scratches on bumper—driver unaware. Reviewed in-depth handout for BGE mirror method and tire education

What we check: If the driver has any difficulties getting

out of the vehicle and walking around it

Why we check: This is an opportunity to observe any

concerns with the driver’s mobility and balance

and answer questions


Explain to the driver:

Introduce yourself and briefly explain the role of an

Occupational Therapist at CarFit

In addition to vehicle walk around, you will provide

education on tires and review the handouts on tire

pressure and mirror settings that are in the goody bag

You will also discuss adaptive equipment and answer

any questions


Observe how the driver exits the vehicle; did this appear to

be painful or difficult?

Did the driver pull up using the door or seat for assistance?

Point out any issues related to tire condition or pressure

and review tire safety handout with participant

Point out any significant dents, scratches or cracks on the

vehicle and allow the driver the opportunity to share how

the damage occurred

Double-check the checklist for any missed concerns and

review the contents of the goodie bag with the driver

Item #12


Thank driver for their participation and collect the forms

Driver Keeps:

Top copy of checklist

Goodie bag

We Keep:

Duplicate copy of checklist

Clipboard

Direct the driver to proceed with caution to

the exit of the parking lot

Check-Out Station

Check-Out Station

During checkout, the OT discusses any items flagged

by the circled checkmark and responds to questions from the

driver

OT’s educate the driver about possible solutions and

resources—from the use of adaptive devices to considering a

driving rehabilitation program or education offered by driving

programs for mature operators

AAA and AARP offer driver safety programs/courses

Driver Rehabilitation Programs also offer specialized services

Helpful Tips… The purpose of CarFit is to improve safety: if you

see something unsafe going on, report it to the

Event Coordinator

Don’t forget to explain why we do something

when reviewing a checklist item with a senior;

teachable moments are the moments they will

take home with them and remember

Wear your safety vest at all times –be safe: be

seen

Do not step in front of moving cars; even at slow

speeds

Helpful Tips…

Don’t listen to your iPod or MP3 player while working

an event – pay attention to what is going on around

you

If you have to make or take a phone call or send a

text, step away from where traffic may be moving

Remember your role at CarFit is to provide

education—never make a driver feel bad or

uncomfortable

Have Fun!!!

Questions?

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