Katherine.Pommert@Healthall.com

Media Alert/Photo Opportunity

Drake Center Hosts Driver Simulation Demonstration for Wal-Mart Foundation

What:  A demonstration of driver simulation equipment that helps therapists assess cognitive and physical skills of patients, and determine if they possess the abilities needed to once again operate a vehicle will be held at Drake Center. The equipment was made possible by a generous donation from the Wal-Mart Foundation in 2007, and has helped patients regain their independence after enduring an injury.

Where:  Drake Center, Outpatient Gym, Level A

When:  9 a.m., Wednesday, July 16
 
Photo Op: A photo and interview opportunity will take place at the demonstration.
All media please meet in the Main Lobby at 9 a.m. for an escort.

Interviews Available:  Karen Bankston, senior vice president of Drake Center
 Craig Rice, president of the Drake Foundation
 Carmen Weber, outpatient physical/occupational therapy supervisor, Drake Center
 Karen Craven, occupational therapist, Drake Center
 
More: "Driving is a real mark of independence," said Karen Craven, occupational therapist for Drake Center. Craven and other therapists have been helping patients relearn the skills needed to drive, giving them the opportunity for a more independent lifestyle.

The purchase of the simulator was possible through a generous donation by the Wal-Mart Foundation, and therapists have already evaluated approximately 80 patients in its first year of use. The STAR system simulator is a computerized system that allows therapists to assess critical cognitive and physical skills of patients, and determine if they posses the core abilities needed to be able to once again operate a vehicle which include:

• Reaction time
• Divided attention
• Ability to maintain lane position, and
• Ability to steer, manage pedals and interact with traffic