Community Policing officer Keith Hildebrand approached Quesnel and District Seniors’ Society president Rae Daggitt to bring the mature drivers program to the Seniors’ Centre where there is a more relaxed atmosphere.
“This facility is ideally positioned and completely accessible for seniors,” Daggitt said.
Set for Nov. 22, 1 – 3 p.m., this is the fourth time the mature driver program has been offered in Quesnel and Hildebrand said it’s an opportunity for mature drivers to assess their own driving skills level.
“As a young police officer, one of the first incidents I attended was a suicide of a senior who had an accident on the way to visit his wife in an extended facility,” Hildebrand said.
“He felt he had no options.
“This program helps identify potential driving challenges, see the signals of deteriorating driving skills,” he said.
“This is also an excellent opportunity for children of senior drivers to bring their parents for the information.
“The mature drivers program is an excellent opportunity for drivers to know where their skills are before something happens and to plan for the future.”
The program begins with a video presentation by the well-known physician Dr. Art Hister. The program also includes updates on new equipment and features, along with new types of tires, that mature drivers may encounter as they upgrade their vehicle.
“And lets face it, it’s important to plan for when they are no longer able to drive. We provide information on how to maintain mobility without a license,” Hildebrand said.
However the program is not a test, it’s meant to be informational, educational and, most importantly, allow mature drivers to determine their own driving skill level.
The mature drivers program is a partnership with RCMP, Seniors’ Centre, BCAA and ICBC.