Promising Practices

Overview
The SouthWest Kansas Area Agency on Aging Older Driver Safety Program consists of classroom trainings and driver assessments conducted through the use of a driving simulator. The AAA serves as facilitator between local organizations that request an older driver safety training program and the agency's partners, the Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) Public Education Division and the SouthWest Kansas Vocational School. The KHP conducts two hours of classroom training on topics related to driver safety and the Vocational School provides a driving simulator. The simulator assesses an individual's reaction time and provides suggestions as to how the driver can avoid dangerous driving situations.

The AAA also hosts a senior expo each year, during which the driving simulator is made available to attendees.

Budget/Funding
No specific funds are designated for the older driver program. Staff time dedicated to the program is absorbed under the Older Americans Act III-B Coordination Services.

Outcomes
The AAA tracks the number of older adults that participate in driver safety trainings, but has not performed a formal evaluation of the program.

Role of Agency/Key Partners
The AAA coordinates the date, time, and location for older driver safety trainings, and the requesting organization is responsible for hosting and publicity. The Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) and the SouthWest Kansas Vocational School conduct the trainings.