Fifteen people attended an hour-long presentation by John Warkentin of the Ontario Ministry of Transport at Willowdale Retirement Residence in Smiths Falls. He talked about the physical and mental changes that we all may experience as we age and how those changes affect our driving abilities. John then explained the new license renewal process for those over 80 years of age.

Ontario’s senior driver programs aim to keep seniors driving for as long as they can safely do so. Once drivers reach 80 years of age, every two years they must take 90 minutes to:
– Take a vision test
– Undergo a driver record review
– Participate in a 45-minute Group Education Session (GES)
– Complete two non-computerized in-class screening assignments
– If necessary, take a road test
The two paper tests are designed to test skills necessary for safe vehicle operation.

After the presentation Willowdale Retirement Residence provided all attendees with a free lunch and a chance on a draw for a gift basket. Congratulations to Irma Aikman for winning the draw.

There have been requests to repeat this presentation in other parts of the Lanark County Chapter 55 area. If you want to see this program in your neighbourhood let us know.