From horse-drawn carriages and bikes to horse-powered engines to driverless cars and expanded highways, America’s means of travel have drastically changed, especially for seniors. One local organization wants to make sure those seniors don’t get left in the dust.

American Association of Retired Persons, or AARP, will hold a Driver Safety Class for seniors Wednesday, March 7 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. inside the Vaughan Place Senior Living community building, located at 1300 Old Orrville Road. The cost is $12 for AARP members and $14 for nonmembers.

Volunteer instructor for the program Dorothy Martin said the eight-hour course is open to everyone.

“In most cases, seniors will get a discount on their auto insurance if they take the course, but not all will,” Martin said. “You must pre-register, because space is limited.”

Martin said because times have changed, it’s important for seniors to take the class to know the rules of the road.

“Most of us have been driving for so long (and) since we initially started driving, the roads have changed, signs have changed, vehicles have changed,” Martin said. “This class is to help seniors develop safe driving habits and techniques to stay on the road longer as we age.”

Martin also said the program is designed to encourage seniors to remain in the driver’s seat.

“In talking with the seniors, a lot of things came out that they didn’t even think about,” Martin said. “You don’t see as good, hear as good or move as fast. We don’t want to lose our independence.”

AARP, Martin said, also offers special driving classes throughout the year for teachers and veterans.

“In July and August, it’s free for teachers and in November, it’s free for veterans,” Martin said.

For more information or to register, call 875-4844.