 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Free Virginia GrandDriver Brochure Now Available Richmond, Virginia - The Virginia Department for the Aging announces the availability of an informative complimentary brochure as part of its GrandDriver public health initiative, which helps keep mature drivers safe, mobile and independent for as long as possible. The brochure, "What You Should Know about Aging and Driving", is available through the Virginia Department for the Aging by calling 1-800-552-3402. "We can help our aging loved ones make smart decisions about when and how to operate a motor vehicle," according to Julie Christopher, Commissioner of the Virginia Department for the Aging. "The GrandDriver public health initiative reaches out to all older Virginians and to their families and caregivers with steps they can take to remain mobile and safe." Sometimes a simple change in habits, Christopher says, is all that's necessary for senior drivers to stay safer longer. These changes vary from driver to driver and may include driving only during daylight hours, mapping out a course of right turns to avoid potential left turn dangers or avoiding busy streets and busy times of day. GrandDriver information includes practical tips for safer driving, alternate forms of transportation to help seniors stay independent, driving assessment tools, local resources and much more. Created by the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA), GrandDriver was piloted in the greater Washington D.C. area including northern Virginia and southern Maryland in May 2003. Virginia was the first state in the country to localize and implement the GrandDriver education campaign on a statewide level. Part of the mission of Virginia GrandDriver is to help prepare seniors to remain safe and mobile in their later years. Commissioner Christopher stresses that, by planning early, Virginians can continue to remain as mobile and as independent as possible. Public transportation options, senior shuttle services, friends and families can all make a big difference in the life of an older Virginian who can no longer drive for whatever reason. Local sources for senior mobility and aging information is available at www.granddriver.net and the free Virginia GrandDriver brochure is available by calling 1-800-552-3402. |
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