Ventura, CA - The Veterans Home of California in Ventura is teaming with driving experts to hold a CarFit event,
a unique, free education program designed to help mature drivers 55 and over understand how to improve driving safety by ensuring their cars are properly adjusted for them.

The event will be held on Saturday, July 16 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 10900 Telephone Road, Ventura, 93004.

The check-up is free, but appointments are required and can be made by calling 805-659-7501.

CarFit is not a mechanical inspection of the car or a test of the driver’s ability. Instead, during each 20-minute CarFit session, trained technicians recommend personal vehicle adjustments and adaptations and offer resources that could enhance senior driving safety. Occupational therapists will also be on hand to provide information on adaptive devices, such as pedal extenders and seat cushions.

“The program’s purpose is to ensure drivers are correctly using vehicle devices, such as mirrors and seat belts,
and are properly placed within their car, all with an eye toward safety,” said Marisue Eastlake, director of the Oxnard Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) which is spearheading CarFit locally.

On Saturday, July 16 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., a team of trained technicians will lead drivers age 55 and over
through a 12-point CarFit checklist to ensure they understand how to use vehicle features properly. Each appointment is 20 minutes.

The American Society on Aging created CarFit in collaboration with AARP, the American Automobile Association
and the American Occupational Therapy Association. The national program is the first to offer mature adults the opportunity to check how well their personal vehicles fit them.

In Ventura County, RSVP is the driving force behind bringing the program to the west county. RSVP is a
volunteer program that helps people age 55 and older find meaningful opportunities to serve within their community.

Its services are free to both the mature adult and the non-profit community, where RSVP works with over 70 different agencies to place volunteers. To learn more about CarFit, go to www.car-fit.org, or call (805) 385-8019.