A unique partnership designed to increase safety on Island roads is continuing to make a positive impact.
The 55 Alive Program is a course that’s been used across North America and is designed to assist mature drivers compensate for the natural decline in driving skills as they age and experience physical changes. The 55 Alive Program is delivered on Prince Edward Island through a partnership of the Canada Safety Council, the PEI Seniors Federation and the Department of Transportation and Public Works.
“The best of drivers can develop some bad habits over time,” said Transportation and Public Works Minister Gail Shea. “The advantage to programs like 55 Alive is that it gives people an opportunity to brush up on their driving skills in a positive learning environment.”
The 55 Alive Program was launched on Prince Edward Island in May, 2002. Working with the PEI Seniors Federation, a total of 14 instructors were recruited and trained to be able to deliver the course in Island communities through local seniors clubs. The course focuses on several area where skills can be improved, including driver distractions, safe following distances, how to avoid collisions, traffic rules, and medication safety when operating a vehicle.
“Having programs like 55 Alive available to mature drivers on Prince Edward Island is a great resource and I’m pleased to see more and more Island drivers participating in it,” said Irene Larkin, Executive Director of the PEI Seniors Federation.
To date, 37 courses have been held across Prince Edward Island with nearly 600 Island drivers taking part. Courses are being held this month in the Wellington area on February 17 and 18 at the Wellington Legion and are being organized by Le Belage Seniors Group. To learn more about the 55 Alive Program, please contact the PEI Seniors Federation at 368-9008.