UP Gazette

In a public release from Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, residents are urged to learn about the consequences of aging and operating motor vehicles as part of National Older Driver Safety Awareness Week in December, according to Michigan.gov.

The week is set to begin on Dec. 7 with predetermined topics set for each day of the week. For example, Friday, Dec. 11, features a conversation on "Staying Engaged in the Community with or without a Car." Family members, coworkers and friends are encouraged to discuss the aforementioned topics, even if they are not senior citizens themselves. 

Another example of weekly conversational topics is "Screening and Evaluations with an Occupational Therapist" on Dec. 9 and "Interventions that Can Empower Drivers" on Dec. 10. 

“We are all aging and someday will have to make the transition away from driving,” Benson said, according to Michigan.gov. “Much of the stress and worry during this process can be relieved through planning and knowing what resources are available in your community.”

Older drivers can utilize the Safe Driver Smart Options website to learn more about keeping older family members safe, such as how to start conversations with senior citizens about transitioning from a driving to non-driving lifestyle. Medications and the role they play when driving is also something that is discussed on the website. 

“Our aging driver website is an excellent resource for older drivers, their families and the professionals who care for them,” Benson told Michigan.gov. “I encourage everyone to visit the Safe Drivers Smart Options website to learn more about keeping an aging family member safe, active and mobile.”