To help older drivers to remain mobile and to celebrate 100 years of service at its Long Beach branch, the Automobile Club of Southern California will host a CarFit® event on Friday, July 25 at the branch. CarFit helps older drivers over 55 learn how the effects of aging can change the way they fit in their vehicle and how their driving can be affected.
The free appointment-only CarFit event will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 4800 Airport Plaza Drive, Suite 100, Long Beach. Appointments can be made by calling the Auto Club’s Lora Babilo at 714- 885-2312.
CarFit’s 12-point, 15-minute checklist on the driver and the car includes evaluating:
- Seat-belt adjustment
- Car pedals
- Seat and steering wheel positioning
- Visibility through windows and mirrors
Often, adjusting these vehicle components will help senior motorists drive more comfortably and safely, according to Anita Lorz Villagrana, the Auto Club’s community affairs and traffic safety manager.
California is the state with the highest number of adults over age 65. “If 75 percent of seniors are licensed in 2025, that adds up to 6.5 million licensed mature drivers,” said Lorz Villagrana.
“The Auto Club believes that people should be able to keep driving as long as they want to – if they can do so safely,” said Lorz Villagrana. The Auto Club, and agencies it has trained, have provided 3,000 CarFit checks to Southland senior motorists.
CarFit was developed by the American Society on Aging with AAA, AARP and American Occupational Therapy Assoc.
Lorz Villagrana noted that aging affects vision, flexibility and strength, range of motion and even size and height. “CarFit helps drivers make adjustments so they’re more comfortable and controlled behind the wheel,” she said.