WINNSBORO — Fairfield Memorial Hospital will sponsor an AARP Driver Safety Course, the nation’s first and largest driver safety course designed especially for drivers age 50 and over, on Feb. 26 and Feb. 27.

The cost of the Driver Safety Course is $12 for AARP members and $14 for non-members. Residents interested in taking the course must register by calling Denise Blackwell at 635-0206.

The AARP course covers defensive driving techniques and the normal changes in vision, hearing and reaction time associated with aging. The course also provides practical techniques for adjusting to these changes to ensure the driver’s own safety and that of others on the road.

During the course, participants learn about current rules of the road and how to operate their vehicles more safely in today’s increasingly challenging driving environment. Topics include:

• Maintaining proper following distance

• Minimizing the effect of dangerous blind spots

• Limiting driver distractions such as eating, smoking and cell phone use

• Properly using safety belts, air bags and all car features

• Effects on medications on driving

• Maintaining physical flexibility

• Monitoring the driving skills and capabilities of yourself and others.

“We are pleased to offer this Driver Safety Course to the seniors in Fairfield County,” said Mike Williams, CEO of Fairfield Memorial Hospital. “This course is intended to help drivers live more independently as they age and remain safe on today’s roads. We believe this is another service that we can provide to our seniors.”

Legislation in most states requires all automobile insurance companies offer a premium discount to people who have completed a state-approved driver improvement course. In states where premium discounts are not mandated, several insurance companies voluntarily provide discounts to participants completing the AARP Driver Safety Course. Participants should contact their insurance company or agent for more details.