Life can be explained as occurring in three stages. During Stage One, we are a child, learning the basics of living. Stage Two begins in our early twenties launching the period of responsibilities, choices, families. Stage Three, aka the Third Age, begins the senior years. Some sociologists proclaim the Third Age starts as early as 45, but most agree that it is launched some time after 50, the approximate age of the maturing baby boomer.

Women are particularly important in the changing economics brought about by the aging of the baby-boomer generation. Because large numbers of female boomers have spent their lives working, many dual-income households will become two-pension households in their Third Age. Also, older women on their own today will have greater economic security at retirement.

Already, the Third Age population is a powerful consumer force. They possess 40 percent of the discretionary income in the U.S. and dominate spending in many consumer categories, including automobiles. And, because women live longer than men, we become more and more a majority as the group ages.

Statisticians claim that one-third of all drivers will be over 55 by Y2K. Third Age drivers have acquired a wealth of motoring experience which should help them travel safely on our busy roads. However, this experience is oftentimes offset by the effects of aging. Sight, hearing, and judgment of speed and distance are not quite as sharp as they once were. Because these senses often deteriorate very gradually, Third-Agers may not be immediately aware of the full extent of the change.

It's important to think about adjustments that might need to be made in one's driving habits and expectations and to take even greater care than ever on the road. The American Association for Retired Persons (AARP) offers an excellent solution. Called "AARP 55 Alive -- Mature Driving Program," it's a quick and inexpensive way to improve skills and avoid accidents and traffic violations.

The eight-hour course is taught in two four-hour sessions spanning two days, and costs around $10. The only requirement is you must be 55 or older; AARP members and non-members alike may take the course. An added incentive is that graduates of the course may be eligible to receive a discount on their auto insurance premiums.

The AARP 55 Alive course covers subjects like the effects of medication, how reaction time changes as we age, hazardous driving situations and new laws and how they affect the older driver. Surf over to AARP to read all about it.

Research has shown there is widespread ignorance of the rules of the road, even among experienced drivers. So wherever you are in the Third Age, it's a good idea to refresh your knowledge from time to time and to keep up with changes in the law.

In the interest of Third-Agers, as well as those in other stages of life, these basic tips, many times forgotten by experienced and beginning drivers alike, are offered:

• Keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front. In good conditions, leave a two-second gap. In bad conditions, leave double the distance.

• At junctions, don't be pressured into moving before you feel it is safe. Give yourself time to take in the whole scene. As well as other vehicles, watch out for pedestrians and cyclists.

• Give turn signals in time for others to see and react. Don't forget to cancel the indicator afterwards. Remember, not everyone uses their turn signals. Watch for these offenders.

• Look ahead and anticipate, especially in urban areas where things can change quickly. Research shows that older drivers tend to have problems when turning left, entering a major road from a minor one, making U turns and reversing, so take extra care with these maneuvers.

• Before setting out, make sure all mirrors adjusted. Side mirrors are excellent safety features, but remember also to look backward to check the blind spot.

• Above all, expect the unexpected. Never rely on other road users to do the right thing. Be prepared to make allowances for the mistakes of others.

Be realistic about the effects of aging on your driving skills and be alive at 55 and long after!