Surf Coast seniors stay mobile with free driving refresher course

FREE refresher driving courses for older adults will run next month across Torquay, Lorne and Aireys Inlet.

Targeted to adults aged 65 and over, the Wiser Driver course runs over four weeks and presents information, education and discussion about driving.

Participants are provided up-to-date information on road rules and opportunities to address any concerns they may have about driving.

The course also encourages participants to think about changes in their health and fitness that may impact their driving.

Lorne Ward councillor Gary Allen said previous participants had expressed a renewed sense of confidence after taking the course last year.

Comments from participants ranged from “practical and informative” and “highly relevant, informative and enjoyable” to “very worthwhile” and “I needed it more than I realised”.

“The informal and friendly courses are a fantastic way for ageing drivers to stay up to date. There are no driving tests, and morning or afternoon tea is also provided,” Cr Allen said.

“This is a safe, inclusive environment imparting valuable knowledge on participants. It’s all about updating and building on their existing knowledge.”

Now in its second year, the course is delivered as a joint collaboration between the Surf Coast Shire, VicRoads and ACCESS Health and Community, and aims to keep people living independently in their communities for as long as possible.

The Wiser Driver course will run at Lorne Community House from 10am-2pm on February 5, 12, 19 and 26, and Aireys Inlet Community Centre from 1-3pm on February 28, March 6, 13 and 20.

The shire council offices will also host the course in Torquay from 10am-12 noon and 1-3pm on March 1, 8, 15 and 22.

Courses for older adults on how to be a wiser walker, wheelchair user and motorised scooter will also run in Torquay in March at the Shire offices.

The Wiser Walker, Wiser Traveller course is a three-week course and will run from 10am-12pm on March 12, 19 and 26

The Safer Scooter, Wiser Wheelchair course is a one-day event and will take place on Monday, March 4 from 10am-3pm.

“The course material centres on the safe mobility of ageing people and supporting them in making safe travel choices as a driver, pedestrian, or when using alternative travel options,” Cr Allen said.

“The Council has gained membership with the World Health Organisation’s Global Network of Age Friendly Cities and Communities. The Wiser Driver courses are an important part of this membership.

“If the car is not an option, quality of life can be considerably reduced – we need to be confident accessing a wide variety of viable transport alternatives.”

To register or to find out more, phone 5261 0600 or email [email protected]