Are you aged 50 and over? Do you enjoy driving, cycling and walking but sometimes feel anxious on the road with all the changes there has been over the years?
To help you through some of the more stressful aspects of being a road user today, an older road users conference is being held in Breaffy House Hotel, Castlebar, on Thursday, 14 March 2019, from 9.30am to 1pm.
The event is free and is an age friendly initiative, organised by Mayo’s Older Persons Council, Mayo County Council’s road safety section and the community section.
The event will cover a range of topics including changes in road traffic law, road layouts and traffic signs, how vehicles have changed over the years and how driving skills and habits have evolved. Another element of the day will include a physiotherapist, optician and also those involved in the importance of physical activity.
The overall aim of the conference is to help improve the experience for Older Road Users and increase their awareness and knowledge on the current road systems/environment.
Representatives from Mayo County Council’s road safety team, the traffic corps, an optometrist, Disabled Drivers Association, insurance representative and an approved RSA driving instructor, along with many more, will be in attendance and will give presentations on the importance of being fully versed around the new road environment. They will also be available to give advice to drivers and to discuss any driving concerns that people may have.
Special guests on the day will include former RTÉ Newsreader; Michael Murphy and current Mayo Footballer; Andy Moran.
Noel Gibbons, Road Safety Officer with Mayo County Council, said: "Driving provides independence and is a valuable skill that should be nurtured for as long as possible, this unique conference will instil confidence in not only the driver but also older cyclist and pedestrians too.
"It is important for senior members of our community to be aware of changes to road rules and how to stay safe on our roads, both as an older driver, cyclist or pedestrian.
"Some Older Road Users are also choosing to use mobility scooters to maintain their independence and stay connected as they give the operator freedom and independence they would not normally have. With an increasing number of people using this mode of transport, the information provided on the day will be designed to assist operators to use the road and footpaths safely.
Marie Flanagan, chairperson on Mayo’s Older Persons Council added: "The event is designed to help our older citizens to confidently navigate the roads and for longer. It will feature a range of helpful services and is completely free, so well worth a visit."
Refreshments will be served on the day and the atmosphere is relaxed, you don't even have to be 50+ to come along. As places are limited, its important to book in advance. To book and to learn more about the event please contact: Celena McCormack on (094 ) 9064336 or e-mail: [email protected] or Mary Blowick on (094 ) 9064348 or [email protected].
