By Betty Berry, Tuesday, December 22, 2009 Q: A while back, my neighbor attended a seminar providing information about how to study for the DMV written test. I now find that for the first time in many years I will be required to take the written test in order to renew my driver’s license.
I sure could use a little help in preparing. Do you know if that seminar will be given again and, if so, where and when?
A: Many seniors are as surprised as you are to receive a notice that a test is required in order to renew their driver’s license.
The request to appear in person to renew your driver’s license could have been triggered by a number of situations. One of the reasons is, according to the DMV, that drivers may not renew their license by mail and are required to take a written test if their current license expires after the age of 70.
A written test and vision test are required.
The DMV sends a renewal notice to your address of record about 60 days before your license expires.
The seminar you are referring to is titled “Will You Pass Your Next Driving Test?” and is offered several times a year at different locations in east Ventura County.
The content of the presentation provides suggestions on how to study for the written test and gives hints on what to do if a road test is in your future.
The presentation is geared to make you more comfortable in dealing with test taking.
At the conclusion of the presentation a handout will be provided to assist with studying for the test.
The Simi Valley Senior Center is offering this seminar next on Jan. 7, from 1:30 to 3 p.m.
The Simi Valley Senior Center is at 3900 Avenida Simi.
The free presentation will be facilitated by the Senior Concerns Advocate.
For more information or to make reservations, call the Simi Center at 583-6363. Reservations are recommended.
The proposed schedule for future “Will You Pass Your Next Driving Test?” seminars is Goebel Senior Adult Center in March, Moorpark Active Adult Center in May, Westlake Village Civic Center in July and then back to Simi Valley in September and the Goebel Center in Thousand Oaks in November.
Dates and times will be made available early in the new year.
Q: Lately it seems that my doctor and I aren’t communicating too well. Is there something I can do to help improve this situation?
A: Yes, there are some things you can do to help the doctor-patient relationship.
Communication is a two-way street, speaking and listening, and both parties have a responsibility to make sure understanding takes place.
For years, doctors have been given all the blame for not listening and for responding in medical terms not understood by the patient. However, the patient must also take part of the blame for not providing clear explanations and failure to really listen to what the doctor is saying.
To receive a correct diagnosis, it is crucial that your doctor receive a detailed, not vague, description of your symptoms. The doctor needs the whole picture, not just what you think is important.
To make sure you don’t forget to provide specific information, make a list of your concerns and take it with you.
Make sure you listen carefully and speak up if you don’t understand. Don’t be afraid about interrupting to have a point re-explained.
Take notes so you can review them when you get home or, better yet, have someone accompany you to the appointment. Two sets of ears are often better than one.
— Betty Berry is a senior advocate for Senior Concerns. The advocates are at the Goebel Senior Adult Center, 1385 E. Janss Road, Thousand Oaks; or call 495-6250. You also can e-mail betty@seniorconcerns.org (please include your telephone number). You are invited to submit questions on senior issues.