Transportation for Seniors : Improving Quality of Life for Your Loved Ones

Aging may affect a persons ability to move freely and travel from one place to another because of muscle loss, joint stiffness, and balance issues. Mobility problems can also occur in people who have developed certain diseases, such as Alzheimers, Parkinsons, and other similar conditions.

 

There are equipment pieces that can provide seniors with assistance, including wheelchairs and electric scooters designed for the elderly. Transportation, however, can be difficult for seniors with mobility problems. This may prevent them from visiting their doctors or running important errands.

 

Current Transportation for Seniors

 

Younger members of your family can drive your senior loved ones when they need to go somewhere, like for a checkup, shopping, or visiting a relative or a friend. But there will be times that you may not be free to give them a ride. If this happens, your loved ones may rely on other transportation options.

 

Seniors can take public transportation, including buses, subways, light rails, and others. Most buses can accommodate wheelchairs and mobility scooters, too. And some transportation also offers discount fares or coupons for seniors. The availability of these options varies depending on your area. Not all cities, unfortunately, have public transportation designed with people who have limited mobility.

 

Improving the Quality of Life of Seniors

 

Mobility scooters are helpful equipment for seniors with limited mobility. These allow them to move around either at home or outdoors. Staying in one place for a long time can be depressing for seniors, that’s why they should be able to move more despite their condition.

Investing in quality scooters provides several benefits, including:

  • Prevention of falls. Seniors, especially with mobility problems are more prone to slips and falls. These can cause bruises and broken bones. In some cases, falls can lead to head and neck injuries. Scooters reduce these dangers, keeping seniors safe.
  • Convenient shopping. Mobility scooters make shopping easier for seniors, especially if they go to big shopping malls. They can enjoy their time with family and friends without worrying about fatigue and falls.
  • Improves caregivers lives. Scooters are not only beneficial to seniors, but they also benefit caregivers. Looking after seniors can overwhelm caregivers over time. Since scooters allow seniors to move independently, caregivers can focus on other chores.

 

Choose a Scooter Based on Your Loved Ones Needs

 

There are various types of mobility scooters in the market, which come in a range of features. Selecting one for your senior family member will mean understanding their needs.

A three-wheel mobility scooter, for example, fits indoor use. They usually have a smaller turning radius, depending on the size of its tires. Some of these scooters also come in different driving range and weight capacities. A four-wheel mobility scooter, on the other hand, has a bigger turning radius, making it ideal for outdoor use.

 

There are also portable varieties that you can disassemble and place in a car trunk. Some of these scooters also come in different driving range and weight capacities.

At 1800wheelchair.com, you can find a wide range of scooters. We carry different designs and style to match the individual needs of your senior loved ones. Our products suit different purposes, like shopping, strolling in the park, or moving around the house.

 

Call our representatives for more information or order online today.

K9 Companions for the Disabled: Learn About Service and Therapy Dogs

golden retriever helper dog

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Traditionally, dogs are pets that are appreciated for their companionship and affection. They are fully dependent on their human owners. Owners might be lonelier if the dogs weren’t around, but it wouldn’t affect their daily tasks. However, not all dogs are pets. Such is the case with assistance and therapy dogs, that is, those animals that undergo extensive training to be able to perform specific tasks. There are several types, but the two major categories are service dogs and therapy dogs.

The relationship between a disabled human being and their service dog is symbiosis. The dog helps the human perform tasks they would otherwise be unable to do and in exchange receives food, shelter, hygiene and love. Service dogs are not pets and are therefore legally permitted into grocery stores and housing that may otherwise not allow animals. However, the law does not apply if the dog is violent or serves as a serious health risk. It is not necessary for a service dog to wear a vest or tag, but many owners choose to dress their dog anyway so others can identify it. Regardless of identification, many people, especially children, do not know proper behavior when a service dog is in the vicinity. Some will try to pet it or speak to it, effectively distracting it from doing the work for which it is intended. This behavior should be discouraged by the owner through the use of verbal explanation or etiquette cards. Service dogs are generally German Shepherds, Labradors or Golden Retrievers.

Therapy dogs are different from service dogs in that they haven’t been trained to assist humans with a variety of activities. Instead, these dogs are stress relievers trained to be “bombproof” against the tugging and hugging of small children in hospitals. They’re also sometimes sent into nursing homes for the benefit of patients suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. Unlike service dogs, most breeds can be a therapy dog with the right training.

The following links lead to assistance dog resources. Included is information about service dogs, their training and what they can be trained to do. There are answers to frequently asked questions about assistance animals. Also provided are specifics about the laws permitting their use as well as proper etiquette both for the owner and the onlooker. The last few links lead to information on how a qualifying individual can apply for an assistance animal.

If you find this article useful, please free feel to link or reuse it. All we ask is for a credit back to our site.


Check out 1800wheelchair’s list of their best wheelchairs or aids to daily living (ADLs) which include: reachers, pill cases, ponchos and sleeping pillows.

Can I Be Fired While On Disability Leave?

The following is a guest post from Alex Granovsky.

CAN I BE FIRED WHILE I AM ON DISABILITY LEAVE – WHAT’S THE DEAL?

Short answer – yes, but….

CAN I BE FIRED WHILE I AM ON DISABILITY LEAVE –BUT I’M ON SHORT TERM/LONG TERM DISABILITY LEAVE?

Short and Long Term disabilities are not job protected.  But, there are cases where you may qualify for leave under the FMLA and/or the ADA.  The FMLA provides you with job protection, and the ADA protects you from discrimination on the basis of your disability.  We detail your protections under the FMLA and ADA below.

CAN I BE FIRED WHILE I AM ON DISABILITY LEAVE –ISN’T IT DISCRIMINATION?

Not necessarily, but it might be.  There are plenty of legal reasons for an employer to fire you.  One reason may be that you are on leave indefinitely and that cannot be accommodated by the employer.  Another reason may be economic/business necessity.  Just because you were terminated and disabled/on leave is not enough – you need to prove that you were terminated because you were disabled/on leave.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”) prohibits employment discrimination on the basis of disability (or perceived disability).  The ADA also requires the employer engage in an “interactive process” to determine whether your disability can be “reasonably accommodated.”  Sometimes, a leave of absence may be a reasonable accommodation – at a minimum, your employer is required to investigate/consider (i.e. engage in the interactive process) whether this is possible.

Ultimately, it comes down to why the employer made the decision to terminate.  If the decision is made because of your disability, it very well may be illegal.

CAN I BE FIRED WHILE I AM ON DISABILITY LEAVE –WHAT ABOUT THE FMLA?

The Family Medical Leave Act (“FMLA”) is a federal law that applies to employers that have 50 or more employees. Under the FMLA certain employees may take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for certain reasons, like a serious health condition.  Although FMLA is “job-protected” (meaning you should be returned to your prior or equivalent position), you can still be terminated while on FMLA if the reason is not related to the leave and is not otherwise not discriminatory.   If your employer can show that the decision to terminate is unrelated to the FMLA leave, it is legal.

About Granovsky & Sundaresh PLLC Can Help

Granovsky & Sundaresh is a boutique labor and employment law firm with offices in New York City and Cleveland that helps employees with all aspects of employment law.  Our practice specializes in discrimination, severance negotiations, employee wages, medical leave and non-compete/non-disclosure agreements.  We offer free consultations and have a proven track record of results.  If you need help, call us to set up a free consultation today.

Physical Disability & Mental Health

How physical disability and mental health are connected

Greers Ferry National Fish Hatchery_ Kid's Fishing Derby _ Flickr_files
Source: USFWS/Southeast via Flickr Creative Commons

Americans living with physical disabilities face a number of significant challenges that can impact their quality of life. For many, physical disability and mental health go hand-in-hand. As you take care of your physical needs, it can be all too easy to neglect your mental health.

Below are a few common challenges faced by people with physical disabilities, as well as some ideas for taking care of your mental health:

Lack of work

For many individuals, a physical disability can impact their ability to work. Although Social Security, Medicaid or other financial resources may be available, these benefits may not cover all living expenses (the average SSDI benefit was less than $14,000 in 2016). Several studies have linked worry about finances or debt to higher risk for mental health issues.

Beyond financial stress, unemployment can also lead to depression or anxiety for some people. If you are not able to work due to a disability, that can leave a void in your life. Many people find enjoyment and a sense of identity in their work, so missing that aspect of life could affect mental health for some people. This National Institutes of Health study illustrates that impact.

Depression and isolation

Surveys show that people with disabilities often experience a sense of social isolation and loneliness, which can also lead to depression and other mental health issues. Inaccessible environments and misunderstanding from non-disabled individuals can sometimes lead to feeling left out, isolated or even shunned.

Recent research links loneliness to a number of other health concerns, including a greater risk for premature death, dementia and heart disease, as well as decreased immunity. The mental and physical impact of loneliness and isolation can be tremendous.

Acquired disability vs. congenital disability

Whether you were born with a disability, or have experienced the onset of a disability to injury or illness later in life, can affect how you perceive your disability. In turn, how well you cope with the idea of living with a disability can support a better quality of life –  including your mental health.

Researchers have identified eight phases of “responses to a physical disability” in people who acquired a disability later in life:

“The onset of a chronic illness or disability typically triggers a chain of psychological reactions, which correspond to eight phases of responses to physical disability. Phases 1 to 6 (Shock, Anxiety, Denial, Depression, Internalized anger, Externalized anger) include the initial stages of adaptation (representing negative adaptation to disability), which an individual hopefully goes through, in order to reach phase 7 and/or phase 8 (Acknowledgement, Adjustment), which are considered as the final phases of adaptation and represent positive adaptation to disability.” (Source: European Journal of Counselling Psychology)

For those who achieve the Acknowledgement and Adjustment phases, mental health and quality of life outlooks are much better:

“Researchers have found that persons with acquired physical disabilities, who adjust more successfully to their disabilities are physically and psychologically healthier. On the contrary, the difficulty of an individual to accept his/her physical disability has been associated with poor physical health and several psychopathological symptoms.”

In a wonderful piece for BBC Radio’s “Point of View” program, sociologist Tom Shakespeare describes his experience with a congenital disability, achondroplasia, as well as an additional disability that occurred later in his life:

“If you think about it for a moment, you realise that people born with an impairment have nothing to which they can compare their current existence. Someone lacking hearing or sight has never experienced music or birdsong, visual art or a sublime landscape. Someone with an intellectual disability may not consider themselves different at all. Someone like me, born with restricted growth, has always been that way. Even if life is sometimes hard, we are used to being the way we are.

For people who become disabled, there’s a typical trajectory. I can say this from personal experience, having become paralysed in 2008. Immediately after the onset of injury or disease, one can feel profoundly depressed, and even contemplate suicide. Yet after a period of time, people adapt to their new situation, re-evaluate their attitude to the disability, and start making the most of it. Sometimes, they are driven to greater achievements than before.”

Shakespeare points out a common myth that people with disabilities are sad or have a low quality of life. On the contrary, he says, many people with disabilities report high levels of satisfaction and a good quality of life.

Taking care of your mental health

As noted above, living with a physical disability doesn’t have to mean a lower quality of life, and there are several steps you can take to support your mental health. They include:

  • Talking to your doctor. When you visit your primary care physician or specialists, discuss your mental health symptoms as well as your physical ones. Your doctor can often connect you with helpful resources.
  • Working with a therapist. A trained therapist can help you work through the phases of coping with and accepting your disability, as well as give you tools and techniques for changing negative thinking and developing positive coping strategies.
  • Exercising. Exercise has been shown to boost endorphins and support mental well-being.
  • Finding social outlets. Cultivating friendships and a social network can help prevent feelings of loneliness, isolation and associated depression. Join a local interest group, take a class, try a sports club, or talk to your therapist about other ideas for connecting socially.
  • Developing a mindfulness practice. Numerous studies have shown that mindfulness and meditation can help prevent or offset the impact of stress and anxiety.

About the Author:

Scott Kohner MSW, LCSW is a psychotherapist in Denver, CO working with individuals, couples, and families. To learn more about Scott, visit www.ScottKohner.com.

 

Americans With Disabilities Face Too Many Bumps in the Road

people in wheelchairs Our survey of Americans with disabilities revealed that:

  • 28% encounter a barrier to a building, transportation or service once a week
  • 20% encounter a barrier at least once a day
  • 36% live in a home that is not wheelchair accessible; of this group:
  • 70% have steps leading into the home
  • 51% cannot afford to make their homes wheelchair accessible
  • 25% say they find ways to “deal with” the challenges and inconveniences
  • 16% say that landlord/homeowner/condo board won’t allow modifications

Top 5 challenges to wheelchair/scooter users:

  1. Unsafe sidewalks due to hazardous slopes, uplifted/deteriorated/blocked sections of sidewalk.
  2. Narrow aisles/thruways in public places
  3. Non-compliant curbs and crosswalks
  4. Blocked wheelchair ramps
  5. Buildings that are completely inaccessible

In January 1987, Robert L. Burgdorf Jr. drafted the The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) as “a response to an appalling problem: widespread, systemic, inhumane discrimination against people with disabilities.” On July 26, 1990 the bill that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including jobs, schools, transportation, and all public and private places that are open to the general public was signed into law. The purpose of the law is to make sure that people with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else. Problem solved, right? Not exactly.

In March 2017, we surveyed 554 Americans with disabilities (including people who live with or are companions to people with disabilities). The provisions of the ADA have effectively removed many barriers, but our survey revealed that far too many still remain.

Barriers Everywhere

Americans with disabilities often encounter barriers that prevent them from entering a building, accessing transportation or accessing a service. 28% of survey respondents say that, on average, they encounter a barrier once per week. 12% say it happens multiple times per day!

graphWhat Gets in the Way?

Those who depend on a wheelchair or scooter (or accompany someone who does) were asked to rank a list of common barriers and obstacles that prevent them from entering a building, accessing transportation or accessing a service in order of the most frequent challenge to the least frequent challenge. The #1 complaint: Unsafe sidewalks due to things like hazardous slopes, uplifted and/or deteriorated sections and sections of sidewalk blocked by poles, trees and other obstructions.

top challenges graph

Crumbling sidewalks and roads are a common sight in many communities. In 2015, the city of Los Angeles agreed to fix a huge backlog of crumbling, impassable sidewalks and remove other barriers that prevented wheelchair access–a violation of the ADA. The L.A. City Council took this action only after attorneys for the disabled filed a lawsuit.

At Home, You’re On Your Own

36% of our survey respondents who depend on a wheelchair or scooter, or live with someone who does, say that their home is not wheelchair accessible.

36 percent respondents who depend on a wheelchair or scooter graph

70% face a huge hurdle before they can even enter their homes: STEPS! Once inside, 55% say narrow doors impede their ability to maneuver around the home. 53% are inconvenienced by inaccessible bathroom fixtures.

wheelchair inconvenienced graph

What’s the Big Deal?

Why wouldn’t a person who needs a wheelchair or scooter simply renovate his or her home to make it completely wheelchair accessible? The #1 reason: money. 

renovate graph

51% of survey respondents say they can’t afford to make alterations to their homes. While some federal and state organizations and private non-profit charities offer grants to subsidize remodeling costs, Americans who depend on a wheelchair or scooter are typically responsible for the costs associated with modifying their homes, even those who live in a rental property.

Many of the 25% who say they find ways to deal with the challenges and inconveniences of living in a home that is not wheelchair accessible certainly have a reduced ability to live independently or even spend time alone. When the challenge is a flight of steps, assistance from one (preferably two) people is required, which adds another challenge: finding people who are ready, able and willing to assist whenever needed.

Define “Reasonable”

Under the ADA and the Fair Housing Act, Americans who have a disability, can ask for a reasonable accommodation for that disability.

16% of our survey respondents say that they haven’t made their home wheelchair accessible because a landlord/homeowner or condo board won’t allow them to make alterations to the home.

According to this
joint statement by the US Department of Justice and the Department of Housing and Urban Development: “A request for a reasonable accommodation may be denied if providing the accommodation is not reasonable – i.e., if it would impose an undue financial and administrative burden on the housing provider or it would fundamentally alter the nature of the provider’s operations. The determination of undue financial and administrative burden must be made on a case-by-case basis involving various factors, such as the cost of the requested accommodation, the financial resources of the provider, the benefits that the accommodation would provide to the requester, and the availability of alternative accommodations that would effectively meet the requester’s disability-related needs.”

Try to make sense of that.

Willful Disregard for the Law

The ADA guarantees protections to people with disabilities but too often, rules are broken, provisions ignored and ambiguities exploited without consequence to anyone but the people with disabilities.

Essentially, a landlord or anyone who has authority over the property can use the “undue burden” clause to deny a request for accommodations. The person with a disability can file a Fair Housing Act complaint to challenge that decision and in the meantime endure barriers that may be in violation of the law.

New York Has a Great Subway, if You’re Not in a Wheelchair” writes Sasha Blair-Goldensohn in a March 2017 “New York Times” opinion piece. After an accident eight years ago, the lifelong New Yorker found himself dependent on a wheelchair and “became increasingly aware of how large, inflexible bureaucracies with a ‘good enough’ approach to infrastructure and services can disenfranchise citizens with disabilities, many of whom cannot bridge these gaps on their own.”

Joyce Forrest, a Washington DC resident, risks her life everyday just to travel to her bus stop in her wheelchair. Matt Trott of Falls Church, VA, one of the wealthiest counties in Virginia, faces similar obstacles. Like many wheelchair users, they suffer tremendous inconveniences and dangers, and they do not have the same opportunities as everyone else, but local officials do nothing. Apparently, it takes a lawsuit or a news team to get government officials to look into the problems. Not fix, look into.

Too often, people with disabilities have to fight long and hard for the rights and protections afforded under the ADA.

What is Disability Discrimination in New York?

New York State Flag

What Laws Apply to Disability Discrimination in New York?

If you work in New York, you are protected from disability discrimination at the workplace by both federal and state law – the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and New York State Human Rights Law (NYSHRL).  If you work in New York City, you have an added layer of protection under the New York City Human Rights Law (NYCHRL).

What are Your Rights?

Discrimination on the basis of disability is illegal.  If you have suffered an adverse employment action (e.g., you have been fired, laid off, suspended, subjected to a hostile work environment, demoted, etc.) and you believe that your disability played a role in the decision to take such adverse employment action, you should contact an employment lawyer.

How is a Disability Defined?

ADA

Under the ADA, to qualify as “disabled,” a person must have “a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities of such individual,” have a “record of such an impairment,” or be “regarded as having such an impairment.”

In 2008, the ADA Amendments Act was passed and added the following guidance to how “disability” should be defined such that:

  • “The definition of disability in this chapter shall be construed in favor of broad coverage … to the maximum extent permitted by [law].
  • “An impairment that substantially limits one major life activity need not limit other major life activities in order to be considered a disability.”
  • “An impairment that is episodic or in remission is a disability if it would substantially limit a major life activity when active.”
  • “The determination of whether an impairment substantially limits a major life activity shall be made without regard to the ameliorative effects of mitigating measures such as (I) medication, medical supplies, equipment … prosthetics … hearing aids and cochlear implants … mobility devices, or oxygen therapy equipment and supplies; (II) use of assistive technology; (III) reasonable accommodations or auxiliary aids or services; or (IV) learned behavioral or adaptive neurological modifications.”

What is a Major Life Activity?

“[M]ajor life activities include … caring for oneself, performing manual tasks, seeing, hearing, eating, sleeping, walking, standing, lifting, bending, speaking, breathing, learning, reading, concentrating, thinking, communicating, and working.”

The term “major life activity” “also includes the operation of a major bodily function, including … functions of the immune system, normal cell growth, digestive, bowel, bladder, neurological, brain, respiratory, circulatory, endocrine, and reproductive functions.”

What is it to “Be Regarded as Having an Impairment”?

“[a]n individual meets the requirement of ‘being regarded as having such an impairment’ if the individual … has been subjected to [discrimination] … because of an actual or perceived physical or mental impairment whether or not the impairment limits or is perceived to limit a major life activity.”

NYSHRL

The NYSHRL defines disability as “ (a) a physical, mental or medical impairment resulting from anatomical, physiological, genetic or neurological conditions which prevents the exercise of a normal bodily function or is demonstrable by medically accepted clinical or laboratory diagnostic techniques or (b) a record of such an impairment or (c) a condition regarded by others as such an impairment, provided, however, that in all provisions of this article dealing with employment, the term shall be limited to disabilities which, upon the provision of reasonable accommodations, do not prevent the complainant from performing in a reasonable manner the activities involved in the job or occupation sought or held.”

Note that this definition is a bit more limited than the ADA because it requires an employee to show that his or her disability can be reasonably accommodated.  On the other hand, the definition is a bit broader in that it does not exclude temporary or transitory conditions.

NYCHRL

The NYCHRL offers the broadest definition of disability.  Under the NYCHRL, disability is defined as “any physical, medical, mental or psychological impairment, or a history or record of such impairment.”

Physical, Medical, Mental or Psychological Impairment

“Physical, medical, mental, or psychological impairment” is defined as “an impairment of any system of the body; including … neurological … musculoskeletal … sense organs and respiratory organs… cardiovascular … reproductive … digestive and genito-urinary … hemic and lymphatic … immunological … the skin … endocrine system … or a mental or psychological impairment.”

What Damages Are Available?

Plaintiffs can recover damages for the following: reinstatement, compensatory damages (damages to compensate the employee for lost wages), punitive damages (damages to punish the employer for its act(s) of discrimination), injunctive relief (a court order forcing the employer to do – or not do – something), attorneys’ fees (the amount that a Plaintiffs’ attorney would be paid based on a reasonable hourly rate and the amount of time put in by the attorney) and costs (hard costs for litigation, e.g., filing fees, depositions, court costs, photocopies, mail, etc.).

What Other Laws Are at Play?

Wage Payment Laws – Are you sure you are being paid for all of your time worked?  Even if you are paid a salary or have a “manager” or “supervisor” title, you may still be entitled to overtime or other wages.  The laws at play here are the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and the State New York Labor Law (NYLL)

Workers’ Compensation – If you suffered an injury at work, you may have a workers’ compensation claim.

Medical Leave Laws – Certain employees are entitled to unpaid leave under the federal Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA).  If you suffer an adverse employment action based upon taking or requesting leave (for yourself or a family member), you may have a claim under the FMLA.

What Should You Do?

If you have suffered an adverse employment action, and you believe that it is related to your physical condition and/or disability, you should absolutely call an employment lawyer.  We respond to all inquiries within 24 hours and offer free initial consultations.  Contact us today.

Granovsky & Sundaresh PLLC Can Help

Granovsky & Sundaresh is a boutique labor and employment law firm with offices in New York City and Cleveland that helps employees with all aspects of employment law.  Our practice specializes in discrimination, severance negotiations, employee wages, medical leave and non-compete/non-disclosure agreements.  We offer free consultations and have a proven track record of results.  If you need help, call us to set up a free consultation today.

Flag image courtesy of Wikipedia

10 Technologies that Are Redefining Disability Right Now

Advances in technology affect all kinds of people, but this sort of progress can truly transform the lives of those with physical and mental disabilities. From mind-controlled exoskeletons to driverless cars, the past couple of years have been a windfall for accessible tech and we’ve compiled a list of 10 exciting innovations that are already redefining disability.

Mind-controlled Exoskeletons

We’re kicking things off with what may just be the most sci-fi sounding entry on the list. Bafflingly, when a 29-year old paraplegic man named Juliano Pinto kicked the ceremonial first ball at the 2014 World Cup using a mind-controlled exoskeleton to help him walk/kick, it didn’t make for major headlines. What should have been frontpage news was mentioned in passing, but it was an incredible achievement that would have seemed implausible just a short time ago.

Eye-controlled Wheelchairs

From mind control to eye control. There’s no more intuitive way to pilot anything than with your eyes. There have actually been several successful eye-controlled wheelchairs in the past couple years, but one of the most promising systems was the Eyedrivomatic, developed by Patrick Joyce, a 46-year old British inventor with motor neurone disease. The technology gives the old “watch where you’re going” refrain a whole new meaning.

Accessible Clothing

Unfortunately, those with disabilities are often forced to use goods and services designed for the non-disabled population and adapt them to their particular situation. In recent years, however, there has been a boom in accessible fashion, and companies like IZ have created fun, fashionable clothing lines truly catered to the disabled community.

3-D Printed Limbs

As we mentioned earlier, 3-D printing is a godsend for accessibility and we’ve seen the technology work wonders in the field of prosthesis. We’ve seen custom-made, 3D-printed arms and legs help folks navigate and manipulate the world around them and but Alex Pring’s prosthesis takes the cake. The 7-year old, Central Florida boy was gifted with a 3-D printed version of his favorite superhero’s arm and Iron Man Robert Downey Jr. delivered it to him in person.

Wheelchairs that Climb Stairs

Stairs: The bane of every wheelchair user’s existence. That may soon change, however, as several stair-climbing wheelchairs are currently in development with a few already in production. One of the most promising is Scalevo, the brain-child of a team of students at ETH Zurich and the Zurich University of the Arts. While ramps are still integral to accessible design, this technology may soon provide wheelchair users with a way of tackling a previously insurmountable obstacle.

Driverless Cars

Tesla Motors and Spacex CEO Elon Musk has thrown substantial weight behind this idea and recently made waves by saying that Tesla could have a commercially-available driverless car within two years. Why is this technology accessible? It allows those with disabilities that leave them unable to drive traditional cars to own and operate their own vehicles. That sort of mobility could be life-changing for thousands, perhaps millions around the world.

Accessibility Maps

Sadly, many major cities around the world lack accessible public transportation and infrastructure, but in recent years, a host of dedicated applications have aimed to make it easier to navigate a frustratingly inaccessible world. Case in point, Jason DaSilva’s AXS Map, which maps accessible locations around the US and uses community input to rate them from their friendliness to those with disabilities.

“Smart” Wheelchairs

These days, it seems everything is “connected,” and wheelchairs have benefitted from that revolution. Just like TVs, cars, and a host of other technologies, wheelchairs have gotten “smarter” in recent years and some models can now store and connect to a user’s health history, monitor their vital signs, and even send out distress calls in case of emergency.

Virtual Reality

Virtual reality was once a staple of science fiction, but of late, it has been a hot topic in the real world. Head-mounted VR sets like Occulus VR’s Occulus Rift provide an immersive experience and wide commercial availability could make VR the talk of 2016. While the technology is still in its infancy, it could soon provide disabled users with virtual access to a variety of experiences that would otherwise be inaccessible. It has become cliche to say, but the future truly is now.

Wheelchairs for Animals

Human wheelchairs are a time-tested, age-old invention, but in the last few years, we’ve seen an influx of wheelchairs designed to accommodate both furry and not-so-furry friends. 3-D printing could very well have its own entry on the list, but the technology has allowed inventors to cheaply produce highly specialized mobility devices for dogs, cats, turtles, guinea pigs, and even goldfish.

Redefining Disability: Experts Tackle Tired Cliches

It’s no secret that the general public is ill-informed when it comes to understanding disability. Outside of those who’ve been close to someone with a disability or have had a disability themselves, people don’t necessarily think about what it means to have a physical or mental handicap. That’s partly because the issue has been stigmatized, mischaracterized, and at times, outright ignored.

Even the words we use in discussing it are inadequate: disability and handicap, for instance, both imply that physical and mental differences must inevitably be impediments to living a happy, well-rounded life. In fact, that’s not true at all and is one of the biggest misconceptions floating around about those who are better referred to as “differently abled.”

In effort to bust some more myths about so-called “disability,” we turned to a community of writers that discuss these issues on a daily basis and asked them the following question:

What’s the most persistent myth surrounding disability?

Here is what they had to say…

Tiffiny Carlson

tiffinycarlsonThe AB [able-bodied] public strongly assumes our lives are bleak, depressing and full of sadness because of our said disabilities. I always find it amusing when a new friends says to me, ‘Wow you live well.’ That’s because I do.

Tiffiny is a longtime disability writer from Minneapolis. You can read her work at BeautyAbility.com. She has a C6 spinal cord injury from a diving accident from when she was 14. Tiffiny holds a degree in Mass Communications from Augsburg College.

Emily Ladau

emily-ladauA vast majority of people perceive disability as the source of an unfortunate, unproductive life, when this is completely untrue. In fact, it is this sort of stigmatization that most contributes to the current barriers still faced by the disability community. While disability certainly comes with plenty of challenges, it is really just a particular state of being – one that can even be incredibly empowering, rather than limiting.

Emily is a freelance writer, social media professional, and outreach specialist. She lives life on wheels and spends her time creating connections for positive change. Read more from Emily at WordsIWheelBy.com.

Cory Lee

Cory LeeOne of the biggest myths that I frequently come across is that people think traveling isn’t possible for wheelchair users. As a powered wheelchair user, I’ve been to 14 countries and found that almost anything is possible with a little determination. It’s not always easy, but it is definitely possible and well worth the extra effort.

Barely in his mid-20s, Cory Lee is a travel addict who turned his passion into a successful travel blog – CurbFreeWithCoryLee.com – where he shares his accessible adventures with readers.

Mark E. Smith

mark_smithWe still unfortunately live in a society where outer appearance may evoke stereotypes and ignorance despite the depth of one’s character. Nowhere is this more prevalent than within physical disability, where aspects from genius to common humanity may be overlooked based on exterior facades. The myth that those with disabilities are somehow different than others is the most persistent myth of all. Let us look beyond the physicality and see the true character we each possess, regardless of disability — and then our common humanity will be rightfully embraced among all.

Mark E Smith is an author, a speaker, and a long-time mobility industry manager. Mobility and disability are his passions. Do yourself a favor and check out his websites WheelchairJunkie.com & PowerChairDiaries.com

Wheelchair Resources – The Disabled in the Community

Disabled individuals face a multitude of challenges on a daily basis. Individuals have to deal with a number of disabilities such as being vision impaired, hearing impaired, wheelchair bound and a number of other disabilities. These disabilities create difficulties for disabled individuals to live regular lives because of transportation, employment, housing and other problems.

To help disabled individuals become acclimated to the non-disabled world, government regulations in the form of the Americans with Disabilities Act has made it easier to adapt. The ADA has created guidelines and laws that need to be met. Because of the ADA, disabled people now have the ability to live, work and enjoy all the conveniences that are available.

To learn more about the Americans with Disabilities Act and other aspects of the help available to disabled, please review the following information:

Americans with Disabilities Act

Assistive Technology

Employment Issues

Housing

Travel & Transportation

Disabled Resources


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From Wheelchair To Hydrotherapy: A Resource Guide To Natural Healing Properties

A lot of effort, time and money is spent on finding medical cures for various diseases. Yet, some of the best cures from natural sources, including herbs and hot springs. The water from hot springs is actually underground water, which comes up to the surface. Until modern medicine was invented in the middle of the twentieth century, natural hot springs used to be considered by many as a great healing agent. Today, there are many people who believe in the healing powers of natural spring waters.

Hydrotherapy

In the 5th century, the famous Greek physician Hippocrates discovered the healing properties of water. He is known as the father of medicine and he has mentioned in his accounts the therapeutic importance of water. If anyone is suffering from any type of muscle injury or joint injury, then hydrotherapy, even though a slow technique, helps immensely in the recovery process. Hydro means water while therapy is derived from the Greek word “therapeia” meaning a service. Hydrotherapy means the use of water to cure certain ailments.

Initially, the process is mild, starting in a warm pool of water with general stretching exercises. Later, it’s taken to a higher level. Hydrotherapy is a very gentle process. It’s excellent for repairing and strengthening injured muscles. The exercises depend upon the type of injury and so they must be done in the presence of a physiotherapist. Natural spring water has many useful minerals and salts which possess healing properties.

  • Water Use: Discusses the use of water in hydrotherapy tanks.
  • Arthritis: Describes how hydrotherapy is beneficial to people who suffer from the condition.
  • Hydrotherapy: Highlights the benefits of hydrotherapy.
  • Cancer: Explains how hydrotherapy can benefit cancer patients.
  • Pain: Provides information on how hydrotherapy can play a part in pain management.
  • Warm Hydrotherapy: Discusses the effectiveness of the process on muscle relaxation and cardiovascular system.
  • Back Pain: Explores the use of hydrotherapy for relief of back pain, stress, and headaches.

Native Americans

For hundreds of years, Native Americans inculcated a deep reverence for the hot water springs located in the Ouachita Mountain Valley. In 1832, Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas was given federal protection. The Colorado springs were studied extensively by scientists. The study found active ingredients such as sulfur, calcium, silica, magnesium, and radium. Elements, such as radium, are excellent for people suffering from tuberculosis. Another spring used first by the Native Americans is the Frankford Mineral Springs located in Pennsylvania. There is evidence near the springs that proves that Native Americans visited the hot springs and believed that the water possessed curative properties.

  • Pagosa Hotsprings: Relates Native American tales related to the springs.
  • Saratoga: Another mineral spring which was used by Native Americans.
  • Manitou Springs: Offers some historical background on this famous mineral spring.
  • Serpentine Hot Springs: A report on this spring in Alaska which was associated with Native Americans.
  • Dawson Springs: A hot spring located in Kentucky with links to Native Americans.
  • Arkansas Valley & Ouachita Mountains: Provides geological information on the region.
  • Oregon: Offers information on the mineral springs found in Oregon, mostly found Native Americans.
  • North Carolina: A look at the history of mineral springs in North Carolina.

Franklin D. Roosevelt

One of the most popular Presidents of the United States, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, believed that water has healing properties. In 1921, he was diagnosed with polio. At that time, not much was known about the disease and no cure was available. As a result, Roosevelt got paralyzed. After hearing about the therapeutic nature of water, he purchased a resort at Warm Springs in Georgia with the express purpose of treating his aliment. He recovered a lot after the hydrotherapy treatment. Today, the Roosevelt Warm Springs has become a popular hydrotherapy center where thousands of similar patients are cured.

Properties of Water Springs

Even today, people believe in the miraculous healing powers of hot springs. It has been scientifically proven that these water bodies contain high quantity of minerals with curing properties. Minerals like calcium, sulfur, salt crystals, and lithium have a healing effect on many body organs. Sulfur helps in curing many skin diseases like dermatitis, fungal infections, and other skin infections. Bathing and drinking of such mineral rich water is highly beneficial. Not only does the water cure diseases but it’s also very good for the skin. It can help to protect people from various diseases. The temperatures of these waters can range from 30 degrees Celsius up to boiling and beyond so it’s important to be careful when you are visiting a mineral spring. Some other famous water springs are present in Germany, Mexico, Australia, Japan, Qadamgah, Canada, Russia, China and many other countries.

  • Sulfur: One of the key minerals found in water springs.
  • Drink the Water: Expounds the benefits of drinking water from hot springs.
  • Waterberg: A report on the chemical and physical properties of thermal springs in the Waterberg region in South Africa.
  • South Kamchatka: A study on the hydrogeochemistry and structure of thermal springs at this location in Russia.
  • Microbes: A study of microbes in carbonate hot springs.
  • Germany & Middle Europe: Offers information on properties of thermal springs in these places.
  • Calcium: A look at one of the minerals commonly found in water springs.
  • Lithium & Alzheimer’s Disease: Discusses the potential role of lithium in preventing the disease.
  • Grover Hot Springs: A hot spring located in California.
  • Liard River Hot Springs: A famous hot springs in British Columbia.

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Beyond The Wheelchair – A Disability Resource Guide

Disabilities come in many different forms. They range from physical disabilities such as loss of sight, loss of a limb to mental disabilities. Each type of disability presents different challenges for individuals such as mobility issues, physical issues and psychological issues.

To help persons with disabilities there are many resources that are available. People with disabilities can receive help with their disabilities and are protected by laws governing the disabled. To help understand the issues of the disabled, we have collected several resources:

Disability Types

  • Disabilities – helpful government site containing information on various types of disabilities.
  • Disability.gov – government portal filled with information on a variety of subjects for the disabled.
  • Types of Disabilities – helpful information on the various types of disabilities that exist.

Mobility

Accessibility

Accommodations

Legal Issues


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Choosing the Best Handicapped Car for Your Needs

While handicapped vans are more popular among those with mobility issues, they are not the only way for the handicapped to travel. Depending on the severity of an individual’s mobility issues, a handicapped car can be a sensible mode of transportation as well.

As is the case with buying a van, there are many different factors you’ll want to look into when searching for the best handicapped car to suit your lifestyle.

Controls: Modified controls within a handicapped car should be large and easy to use. Some models even have touch screen to make things much easier. Additionally, any controls for the locks and windows should be automatic.

Entry: Most cars won’t offer the same ease-of-access that vans do. Still, handicapped cars typically come with some form of keyless entry or a modification to the door that makes getting in and out of the car much easier.

Space: How much space is in the car? Do you have enough height and room to move around? Do you need any modifications that will accommodate your wheelchair?

Seats: If possible, you may want to look into getting a handicapped car that has a bench seat rather than two separate seats. These seats tend to make more room and are much more comfortable for those with disabilities. They should also come with power controls that allow the driver to adjust the seat for their maximum comfort.

Cruise Control: Handicapped cars are much more convenient when they come with cruise control. This makes the process of driving much easier on the handicapped individual.

Safety Features: You’ll want standard safety features on your handicapped car, just as you would with a normal car. Make sure your handicapped car comes equipped with airbags and anti-lock brakes.

Transmission: Most important of all, a handicapped car should always be an automatic. Manual transmissions only add more difficulty for the driver and can cause frustration and accidents.

This may seem like a lot to look for, but if you visit a car lot with a plan already set in place, you’ll be sure to find the appropriate handicapped car for you.

 

The Cost of a Wheelchair Van Conversion

How much does it cost to convert a van? This blog post will break down the price of a wheelchair van conversion, so you know what to expect.

Wheelchair van conversion modifications are extremely common. Not only are these conversions common but they are also relatively inexpensive in the grand scheme of things. A number of different types of vans can be converted to accommodate wheelchairs and scooters of varying shapes and sizes. If you have a full-size van, mini van or conversion van, adaptations can be made to your vehicle.

Type of Modifications

The first thing to consider is the type of modification you are looking for. Do you want to modify the rear, side or driver’s seat? Rear modifications will make it easier to load a wheelchair into the back of a van. Side modifications provide access from the side of a vehicle. If you currently use a wheelchair and would like to drive, driver’s side modifications can be easily made as well.

Typically, side modifications cost more than rear modifications, since changes to the side of the van are more labor intensive. Wheelchair van conversion prices range from $10,000 to more than $20,000 depending on what you want to do, the type of technology you are seeking and the type of vehicle you currently have. The best way to price changes to your van is to shop around and compare prices. Like anything else, price comparisons are the way to go.

Time and Company Selection

A simple Google search will bring up many companies that specialize in a wheelchair van conversion. Make sure to choose a company that comes with a good reputation, has been in business for a while and offers reliable equipment. Ask to see some samples of modifications available, ask for referrals, and choose the modification that makes the most sense to you.

Wheelchair van conversions may seem expensive at the start, but these conversions will last for many years to come. In addition, simple conversions to your current vehicle will make your life a lot simpler. Enjoy complete freedom and ease with the right conversions for your van.

1800wheelchair offers a full directory of dealers who will do tis type of conversion. Check it out here – Wheelchair Van Directory.

Wisdom From A Wheelchair: An FDR Resource Guide

Despite his numerous health issues, including being paralyzed from the waist down, Franklin D. Roosevelt (FDR) is considered, by a large majority, one of the greatest Presidents in American history. Believing that his health issues would make him appear weak to outsiders and worry the American public, FDR rarely allowed himself to be photographed in his wheelchair, and went to great lengths to hid his other ailments. Even in his poorest condition, President Roosevelt changed the social policies of America, and helped conceive of the single largest peace keeping organization in the world – the United Nations. The following links will provide biographical information, lesson plans, study guides and information on FDR’s legacy, as well as suggested readings.

Brief Biographies

  • Biography of FDR This article provides a quality biography of Franklin D. Roosevelt, including the early years of his life.
  • Brief Biography This website provides a brief biography of FDR, including what he was known for and where he was born.
  • Innagural Addresses This website has a biography of FDR, as well as links to his four inaugural addresses.
  • Famous President This website provides brief facts about this famous president, as well as a short biography.
  • Columbia’s Biography This biography of FDR comes from the school he attended: Columbia University.

Lesson Plans

  • Four Freedoms Lesson This website provides resources, lesson plans and activities for studying the four freedoms.
  • FDR’s Disabilities This lesson plan focuses on President Roosevelt’s disabilities, teaching students about how he hid the disabilities and overcame them.
  • FDR And the Supreme Court These four lessons teach children about how FDR dealt with his constituents and the judicial system.
  • The New Deal This lesson plan focuses on the New Deal, helping elementary aged students understand it.
  • The Great Depression and FDR This website offers a comprehensive lesson plan for high school teachers focusing on the Great Depression and how FDR handled it.
  • Great Depression This lesson plan focuses on how the American people dealt with the great depression and how they responded to FDR.
  • The Supreme Court This lesson plan focuses on why FDR wanted to change the Supreme Court to help keep the New Deal.

FDR Study Guides

  • Four Freedoms Study Guide This study guide focuses on FDR’s four freedoms: freedom of speech, religion, freedom from want and freedom from fear.
  • FDR Study Guide This website provides study questions and essay ideas for student’s focusing on President Roosevelt.
  • The Great Depression This study guide focuses on the cause of the Great Depression and how FDR handled it.
  • FDR and the War This study guide provides 56 study questions about the War and President Roosevelt.
  • Great Depression and New Deal Study Guide A study guide for two of the major parts of FDR’s presidency, with 59 study questions.
  • Crash of 1929 This study guide focuses on the period right before and after the Great Depression.

Legacy

FDR is most commonly remembered for his implementation of the New Deal, a set of social programs intended to aid the America public during the Great Depression. His idea for a peace keeping organization gave way to the inception of the United Nations, although this did not happen until after his sudden death. He was such a strong supporter of the Boy Scouts, that he actually became the President of the New York Boy Scouts, attending several functions during his presidency. Historians and analysts consider Roosevelt one of the best and most influential presidents in American History, in league with George Washington and Abraham Lincoln.

His Disabilities

In 1921, well before his presidency, FDR contracted what was then believed to be polio, becoming paralyzed from the waist down. In later years, this diagnosis was heavily debated, with many believing he actually had Guillain Barre syndrome. Since he became paralyzed, FDR underwent countless different therapies, refusing to settle for being paralyzed, even teaching himself to walk for short distances. He is also believed to have had hypertension, anemia, and possibly melanoma. He was placed on digitalis for what some believe to be congenital heart failure.

  • Disability and Deception This article describes the many ailments of the 32nd president and how he hid them from the American people.
  • The Death of FDR This article explains when and how FDR died, including speculation into his health issues.
  • The Dying President This article details how those working with FDR dealt with his ailing health.
  • Health Issues This website provides a list of all of the known health issues that President Roosevelt faced.

Recommended Reading

  • The Rise of Theodore Roosevelt This book, written by Edmund Morris, details how FDR became the 32nd president of the United States.
  • Roosevelts Writings This website provides a list of the writings of FDR.
  • By and About This website details all of the books written by and about President Roosevelt.
  • Good Books These three books focusing on President Roosevelt are recommended by America’s Library.
  • Theodore Roosevelt Collection This website provides a list of books, photographs and exhibits all about President Roosevelt.
  • The Presidency of Theodore Roosevelt This book, written by Lewis L. Gould, details the presidency of FDR.
  • The Wilderness Warrior This book, written by Douglas Brinkley, provide details on the private life of FDR, including his love of hunting.
  • Books and Articles This website provides a comprehensive list of a majority of the books and articles written about Theodore Roosevelt.
  • Articles and Editorials This website provides a detailed list of all of the articles and editorials written by FDR.
  • Why We Should Study FDR This TIME Magazine article explains why Americans should study the life and works of President Roosevelt.

If you find this article useful, please free feel to link or reuse it. All we ask is for a credit back to our site.


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People First Language: I Am Not My Wheelchair

Consider the sentence:

“Christopher Reeve was a wheelchair-bound actor.”

To those familiar with his career before he suffered the accident which lead to his paralysis, this would be a gross misrepresentation of a popular and beloved figure. Why then, is it acceptable to characterize others in similar ways – even if they have lived with a disability from birth?

People who live with disabilities face social challenges daily, and they may feel uncomfortable when ordinary people refer to them as “disabled people”. Some basic consideration of the language that we use to talk with and about people with disabilities can make a substantial difference in the atmosphere within a workplace, classroom, social situation, or even in casual encounters. The characterization of people with disabilities as people first and foremost can be the difference between recognition and dismissal of a person who has ability, interests, and ambition. For instance:

  • “Ray Charles was a blind musician” minimizes his accomplishments, and frames them as occurring in spite of his disability. “Ray Charles was a world-renowned musician who was blind” is a recognition of his individuality and talent, above the disability which he lived with.
  • “Helen Keller was deaf and blind” defines her solely in terms of her disability, and entirely ignores her career as a human rights activist and writer. “Helen Keller was the author of 12 books, and was the first deaf-blind person to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree” identifies her as a person who was intelligent and motivated, regardless of her sensory disabilities.
  • “Franklin Delano Roosevelt was a disabled politician” seems an almost absurd description of a man who became one of the most respected Presidents of the United States. His accomplishments are so well known and regarded that they eclipse the fact that he spent much of his life in a wheelchair as a result of a battle with polio. Does this then suggest that there is a threshold beyond which a person with a disability must achieve to be afforded an identity beyond their physical, sensory, or cognitive impairment?

People first language is defined as a linguistic prescriptivism that seeks to eliminate dehumanization of people with disabilities. It helps those who don’t live with a disability recognize people with disabilities as individuals with personalities and identities that are distinct from their disability. The most basic and effective use of the language is to identify people with disabilities by their names.

Because people first language is intended to increase the communicated level of respect in interaction between people who have disabilities and people who do not, it is recommended that it be a consideration in all such interaction. However, the extent of its use should be determined situationally. If including people first language in a single sentence is cumbersome, and causes a speaker to stumble over words, it may not be ideal or critical that the most explicit and clear people first language be used. Some feel that extreme adherence to people first language constitutes excessive political correctness, and takes the focus away from effective communication. In all cases, it is important to consider the context of the communication, and the wishes of the people involved. Likewise, if a party to a communication feels that any of the language used is inappropriate or not useful, they should make this known, for the sake of fostering an environment of mutual respect and positive interaction.

Many educational institutions that serve young children encourage people first language in order to establish an environment of respect and inclusion early in a child’s social development – both for the sake of children who live with disabilities, and for those who do not.

Here are links to more information about people first language:

If you find this article useful, please free feel to link or reuse it. All we ask is for a credit back to our site.


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