Newsroom

Willoughby, Ohio -

Most people think older drivers are dangerous. But the real truth is people in their 70's, 80's and 90's may be safer drivers than a lot of teenagers.

Just ask Matt Gurwell about safe drivers. Matt is a former Ohio State Trooper who is devoting his time and attention to changing the way seniors think about driving. Gurwell recently launched a new company, Keeping Us Safe, LLC and now lectures, offers personal consultations and facilitates Enhanced Self-Assessments with the goal of helping seniors continue to drive safely until they decide on their own that it is time to give up their car keys.

Gurwell believes that age does not necessarily rule out anyone as a safe driver. A driver can be safe or dangerous at any age. He does, however, believe that older drivers must become more tuned in to their abilities and limitations especially those brought on by the aging process.

During his talks to senior groups, Matt offers a number of strategies and exercises to help older drivers continue to be safe drivers. He talks to them about what to watch for to make sure their driving abilities are sharp. He also offers them ways to self-test their agility and mental acuity on their own.

"I am not offering another safe-driving class," said Gurwell. "I help people increase their awareness of the beginnings of diminished driving skills that may be a result of the aging process. Our presentation takes a direct yet compassionate approach to the very sensitive subject of recognizing that someday it may be time to relinquish some of that treasured driving independence."

Keeping Us Safe is the first and only company in Ohio to offer the Enhanced Self-Assessment Program. These include a drive with Gurwell in the passenger seat, followed by an in-depth discussion with the client. Gurwell spends three to four hours with each client following up with a written report of the senior's decisions, their abilities and limitations. Should his clients continue to drive, Gurwell offers recommendations for safe-driving practices, ideas for limiting driving and asks the client to consider creating a potentially life-saving "driving agreement".

Asking a person to stop driving can be a delicate, highly emotional matter, one often avoided by family and friends. Some adult children do not want to challenge a parent or may already be overloaded with other responsibilities. The Enhanced Self-Assessment Program gives older drivers control over their situation. Gurwell often finds that seniors will decide on their own to give up driving once they see their limitations.

Gurwell's ultimate goal is not to take away the car keys from older drivers, but rather to help clients create a plan so they recognize diminishing skills, know how to compensate for them and remain on the roadways as safe drivers. When appropriate, he can also assist the client in a smooth transition from the driver's seat to the passenger's seat.

Matt Gurwell is available for Guided Self-Assessments and speaking engagements. Please contact him at (toll-free) 877-907-8841 or 216-904-8841. For more information on Keeping Us Safe, LLC please visit their website at www.keepingussafe.org or email info@keepingussafe.org.