Page 20 - Senior Times South Central Michigan - July 2019 - 26-07

Page 20
Senior Times - July 2019
SAFETY TIPS FOR OLDER DRIVERS
By: Sherii Sherban, Publisher
Research has shown that even though older drivers travel fewer miles per year they are more prone to being seriously injured or killed in a traffic crash. Based on the esti- mated annual miles traveled, the fatality rate for driver’s age 65 and older is an astonish- ing 17 times higher than the rate for drivers 25 to 64 years old.
the mirrors and locks as well. Take a peek in the trunk to check the spare tire and that you have the working tools you need in case of an emergency. Check to be sure the first aid kit is fully stocked. Check for the proper paperwork in the glove box.
is a physical exercise, which requires a cer- tain level of strength, flexibility, and coordi- nation to do safely.
The good news is that the number and severity of crashes involving older driv-
ers in Michigan is declining. Part of this downward trend might be attributed to the increased safety measures provided by newer vehicles. Having a complete inspec- tion and detailing can get your summer trav- els off to a great start.
Professionals will gladly assist with inspecting the A/C system, brake system, suspension, tire pressure and tread, wipers and fluid, engine oil, engine coolant, trans- mission and differential fluids, hoses, belts, and more.
Incorporating regular physical activity has been shown to slow down the aging process as well as help the brain. When it comes
to driving it also helps with the physical demands of driving, from being able to turn your head to look for traffic or other haz- ards as well as reaction time when hazards are identified. If you are having difficulty shifting gears on the coveted classic car, that you only drive in the summer, turning the steering wheel or braking, it may be time
to trade in the stick for a new vehicle with power steering and brakes for the safety of everyone on the road.
Flexibility fitness training can be
an effective tool in improving range of motion and increasing levels of fitness among older drivers, resulting in better driving skills.
Before taking your vehicle in for a safe- ty inspection prior to your summertime travels take it for a test-drive and pay attention to anything unusual.
Your car battery should not be over- looked as you prepare for your summer travel. Contrary to popular belief, summer highs rather than winter lows pose the great- er threat to battery life, according to the non-profit Car Care Council. Sooner or later all batteries have to be replaced. Excessive heat and overcharging are the two main rea- sons for shortened battery life. Heat causes battery fluid to evaporate, thus damaging the internal structure of the battery.
Do a quick run up the local freeway
to listen for noises, feel for shakes, and watch for trouble signs in the gauges. Don’t assume everything is fine just because you drive your car every day. This is intended to be a test, not a commute, so focus on your car. Do you hear grinding or moaning from the wheels? Does the car pull? Check for alignment problems or worn tires. Does it shimmy or squeal? Do the headlights flicker at idle?
Driving habits such as frequent engine on/off cycles will cause more wear on the starter than a simple back and forth to work. Other factors include driving and weather conditions, mileage, vehicle age, and exces- sive electrical draws like in-vehicle enter- tainment systems. Check the battery if you notice headlights and interior lights dim, accessories that fail to operate, or the “check engine” and/or battery light illuminated.
Concerns for the driving senior might also include the changes and challenges for other senses. Changing eyesight can make driving at night, or when raining, more challenging. Diminished hearing can make it difficult to hear warning signals. It’s a good idea to be safe and get your hearing and vision tested before heading out on the road. Working with health professionals the aging senior can find solutions for the challenges that they may face to keep them driving safely.
You should also do a visual check around the outside of the car. Do you see any fluids on the ground? What color are they? You can also easily check to be sure all lights and signals are working. Examine windows for cracks and that they are working. Check
While your vehicle is in the shop getting its check up, it’s the perfect opportunity for you to head in for a check up as well. It is important for older drivers to realize that safety in a vehicle is also related to their per- sonal health and physical condition. Driving
Taking steps now to have your vehicle inspected, as well as your personal health evaluations, can prepare you for a full sum- mer of adventure. Happy travels.
SENIOR DINING CENTERS
CITY
Hastings Woodland
Albion Battle Creek Battle Creek Battle Creek Marshall Tekonsha
Jackson Jackson Napoleon Spring Arbor
LOCATION
COA Building Eagles Club
FACILITATOR
Theresa Lancaster Leona Rairigh
PHONE
(269) 948-4856
(269) 367-4041
DAYS TIME
M-F 10am-2pm
M,W,F 10:30am-1pm
BARRY COUNTY
Delton
Faith United Methodist
Angela Soya
(269) 579-3918
M,W,T
11am-1pm
Nashville
Main St. Banqets
Jenny Burlison
(517) 213-9212
M-F
10:30am-1pm
Meals provided by Barry County Commission on Aging. A program sponsored by Barry County United Way.
BRANCH COUNTY
Coldwater
Coldwater Church of Christ
Alisha Carr
(517) 279-8249
M,T,Th,F
9am-1pm
Lunch Served at 12pm
Meals provided by Community Action Food and Nutritional Services. Funding sources AAA 3C, Branch County United Way, USDA, and private donations.
CALHOUN COUNTY
Albion
Albion Forks Senior Dining Center
Cynthia Rose
(866) 200-8877
M,T,W,F
10:30am-1pm
Lunch served at 12pm
Clarence Township Dining Center Bedford Manor Dining Center Lakeview 900 Territorial Dining Center Westbrook Place Dining Center Heritage Commons
Tekonsha Community Hall
Mark Rice Billy Castle Karl Hoard Michelle Dove Kitty Knoll
Senior Health Partners
(866) 200-8877 (866) 200-8877 (866) 200-8877 (866) 200-8877 (269) 558-6150
(269) 441-0948
M,T,W M,T,W,Th,F M,W,F M,T,W,Th,F T, Th
T
10:30am-1pm 10:30am-1pm 10:30am-1pm 10:30am-1pm 12-1pm
10am
Lunch served at 11:45am Lunch served at 11:30am Lunch served at 11:30am Lunch served at 11:30am Lunch served at 12pm
Senior Fit & Fun, Lunch after
Athens
Athens Lighthouse Community Center
Senior Health Partners
(269) 441-0948
Th
10am
Senior Fit & Fun, Lunch after
Battle Creek
Cherryhill Manor Senior Center
Constance Siegel
(866) 200-8877
M,T,W,Th,F
10:30am-1pm
Lunch served at 11:30am
Battle Creek
Springview Towers Dining Center
Eileen Worthington
(866) 200-8877
M,T,W,F
10:30am-1pm
Lunch served at 11:30am
Homer
Homer Presbyterian Church
Senior Health Partners
(269) 441-0948
T
10:30am
Senior Fit & Fun, Lunch after
Marshall
Marshall House Dining Center
Deb Trescott
(866) 200-8877
M,W,F
10:30am-1pm
Lunch served at 12pm
All sites have hot and cold meals. Meals provided by Senior Services SW MI. Funding by Calhoun County Senior Services, CareWell Services - AAA 3B, USDA, and private donations.
JACKSON COUNTY
Grass Lake
Grass Lake Food With Friends
Annie Lavergne
(517) 788-4364
T, Th
10am-3:30pm
Lunch served at 12pm
Crouch Senior Center
King Rec Center, Food with Friends Napoleon Township Hall
Spring Arbor Senior Center
Laurie Mead Laurie Mead Gail Jamieson
Shimone Glaspie
(517) 788-4364 (517) 788-4364 (517) 788-4364
(517) 750-1010
M,T,W,Th,F M,T,W,Th,F T, Th M,T,W,Th,F
8am-4pm 10:30am-1:30pm 10:30am-1:30pm
9:45am-1:45pm
Lunch served at 12pm Lunch served at 12pm Lunch served at 12pm
Lunch served at 12pm
Jackson
Park Forest
Laurie Mead
(517) 788-4364
M,T,W,Th,F
10:30am-1:30pm
Lunch served at 12pm
Michigan Center
St. Aidan’s Episcopal Church
Laurie Mead
(517) 788-4364
M,W,F
10am-2pm
Lunch served at 12pm
Norvell
Norvell/Township Hall
Gail Jamieson
(517) 788-4364
M,W,F
10:30am-1:30pm
Lunch served at 12pm
To have your senior dining center added or changes to your listing, Call Sherii at (269) 979-1412 ext. 302 or Email: ssherban@wwthayne.com