10 Best disability amicable Cities in the U.S.

It is step by step becoming easier for wheelchair users to travel and move to cities in the USA. Whether or not you're planning a trip or a move, there are a few things to recall. Probably the most customary considerations are entry to public constructions, transit options, climate conditions, sidewalk and ramp entry. The next cities are referred to as the friendliest cities in the USA for wheelchair customers.

How to Choose a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle

Wheelchair customers have person specifications to pressure safely. The auto enterprise has created a style of wheelchair available autos together with SUVs. BraunAbility has made it viable for the enterprise to adapt unique items into luxurious cars for wheelchair users. For example, in 2014 BraunAbility used to be worried in designing three wheelchair van conversion options for the Honda Odyssey. This allowed wheelchair customers to opt for from items such as the Braun Honda vigor, VMI Honda Northstar, and the VMI Honda Summit. Every model has a kind of distinct changes to suit the wishes of wheelchair users.

Adaptive Fitness Programs Help Wheelchair Users Stay in Shape

If you idea exercising was just for ready-bodied humans; suppose once more. At present, adaptive health applications have end up more and more wellknown for members with all varieties of disabilities and confined mobility. Those who haven’t tried adaptive health can be pleasantly amazed to study just how many exercise and fitness routines they may be able to accomplish. Not simplest do these programs help toughen physical force, they elevate the spirits of mind and physique.

The Ford Transit Commercial Wheelchair Conversion Van Raises the Bar with Versatility and Performance

The Ford Transit industrial wheelchair conversion van raises the bar in relation to ultimate versatility at an affordable fee. Its peerless efficiency, increased gas economy and colossal cabin inside that can accommodate up to 5 wheelchair passengers with a complete seating capacity of as much as 15 passengers makes it an excellent choice for hotels, shuttle operators, limousine and taxi services, para-transit agencies and different transportation corporations that serve disabled passengers.

Auto Insurance Tips for Drivers with Disabilities

It’s unlucky that drivers with disabilities have got to overcome numerous boundaries to insure their vehicles. Insurance is a little more problematic due to the after-market mobility modifications for adaptive equipment that permits drivers with disabilities to safely operate the auto.

Airline Complaints for Travelers with Disabilities on the Rise

Airline complaints from tourists with disabilities are on the upward push, in line with an Air travel client record released on August 17, 2016 by means of the U.S. Division of Transportation (DOT). In June 2016, the U.S. DOT received a whole of 83 incapacity-related complaints, up 22 percent from June 2015. Correctly, during the primary six months of 2016, a total of 426 incapacity-related complaints was obtained, a 17 percentage increase for the same time period final 12 months. In its 2014 annual report to Congress, the present day report currently available, the DOT famous that just about half of the disability complaints are concerning the airline’s failure to provide enough help to individuals in wheelchairs.

Adaptability Programs Help Put Individuals with Disabilities in the Driver’s Seat

The liberty to force is the ideal mobility. It’s additionally the capacity to head to work, university, searching, seek advice from with household and acquaintances or anywhere you pick to move in your possess. But in order for this to be viable minivans and vehicles most likely must be transformed right into a vehicle that meets the specified accessibility wants of each and every person.

What is the Special Needs Fairness and Medicaid Improvement Act All About?

Presented on February three, 2015, the targeted wishes equity and Medicaid growth Act (H.R 670) has been floating round congress for greater than a 12 months. However, because of U.S. Consultant Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson, for Pennsylvania’s 5th congressional district, who authored and sponsored the Act, it used to be overwhelmingly permitted by way of the apartment on September twentieth, 2016. This act eliminates arbitrary legal barriers that have avoided individuals with unique needs from independently growing detailed needs Trusts. A targeted desires trust is used to supplement care and living bills that would otherwise no longer be blanketed by means of Social security or Medicaid.

Keeping the Holidays Bright

Twinkly lights, household and pals gathered collectively, just right meals and tune. All of these matters mix to make the holidays a distinctive time for many people. However together with all the joy can come some stress when there's an excessive amount of to do and unrealistic expectations of what will occur over these busy days.

The Many Benefits of Aqua Therapy

For those suffering from long term physical ailments and even those who are looking for low affect activity choices as they age, aqua therapy presents many advantages. Also known as water healing, pool healing or hydrotherapy, aqua remedy is a usual a part of rehabilitation and pastime programs. One rationale why aqua remedy is so preferred is because it offers a low impact undertaking choice that may increase muscle tone without risking harm.

The Many Advantages of Aluminum Wheelchair Ramps

When you or anybody you love is in a wheelchair or uses a scooter, a ramp is a necessity. Finding and putting in the proper wheelchair ramp is primary. The exceptional wheelchair ramp is determined not just based on the preliminary buy and installation rate. When identifying the excellent wheelchair ramp, you have to additionally remember the renovation, permanence of the constitution, and the capacity to regulate the ramp as wanted. All of these explanations play an equally essential role in selecting the fine wheelchair ramp on your residence.

5 Must See Wheelchair Accessible Tourist Destinations

There are amazing and pleasing places to seek advice from around the globe at present together with museums, seashores, theme parks, and old sites, to name a number of. However sadly, there are lots of tourist locations that are not as effortlessly obtainable for individuals with disabilities. So, we’ve put collectively a list of 5 have to see obtainable and wheelchair conversion van pleasant locations for all people to experience.

Team USA Goes for Gold at 2016 Paralympic Games in Rio

The opening Ceremony for the 2016 Paralympics in Rio was held September seventh at Maracana Stadium and welcomed paralympians from around the world together with the award-successful staff u.S.. Represented by 289 men and ladies competing in 20 physical games, the group chose Allison Jones, a bike owner and alpine skier from Colorado Springs, Colorado to be their flag bearer.

5 Everyday Challenges Facing Individuals with Disabilities

Some will say that encountering hardships and difficulties are part of existence. Even as that’s proper, individuals with physical disabilities going about their every day hobbies are regularly confronted with a form of boundaries which are less complicated for able-bodied citizens to beat. In step with the sector health group (WHO) contributors with disabilities are impacted by way of transportation, bodily, attitudinal, verbal exchange, and policy challenges.

America’s Most Demanded Conversion Van Is Now Even More Affordable

In the case of mobility for members with exact wishes, affordability will not be constantly inside reach. However as some of the nation’s largest conversion van buyers, we're on a mission to make low cost mobility a reality, not only a dream.

The Key to Accessible Mobility

That you may have the entire automobiles and adaptive technological know-how on the earth, but if few can come up with the money for them then do you rather have accessible mobility? That’s why affordability is really the key to accessible mobility. Whilst there was growth made in making public transportation accessible for men and women with bodily disabilities, given the choice most would decide on to remain as unbiased as possible. That entails the potential to afford an accessible vehicle. That is primary due to the fact many members with detailed wishes consider overlooked of mainstream society. Actually, the majority of disabled members taking part in a 2010 Scope survey in the United Kingdom reported being excluded from social events.

Navigating ADA Accessibility at Polling Locations

For the duration of the 2016 election season, greater than 30 million americans with unique desires will be traveling to one of the crucial greater than one hundred,000 polling locations to forged their vote. To be certain that citizens with disabilities are ready to exercise their right to vote, Federal regulation requires all polling places to be compliant with the americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Nonetheless, according to a 2006 report with the aid of the U.S. Elections help fee (EAC) 87.7 percent of polling locations were ADA-compliant. With that in intellect, listed here are a few guidelines for navigating ADA accessibility at polling places.

Alternative Funding Sources for Your Special Needs Van

For participants with distinctive wishes, a van conversion is the key to retaining an unbiased way of life. Regrettably, it may well appear out of attain for some. However with so many substitute funding sources to be had at present, there are extra possibilities than ever earlier than for participants to get the wheelchair available automobile that meets their desires so they are able to hold their independent residing.

Two Very Creative Uses for Conversion Vans

Our conversion trucks are probably the most most versatile cars on hand. And moreover to serving as cheap wheelchair obtainable autos for designated desires passengers, lots of our patrons have discovered that its measurement, steadiness, guide loading ramp and different excellent features are ultimate for different inventive uses as good.

From Cargo Van to Wheelchair Accessible Passenger Van

Cargo vehicles make first-class wheelchair available vehicles because of their large physique, spacious inside, extra headroom and industrial force steadiness. It is hence that FR Conversions has chosen the avert RAM ProMaster has one in every of their preferred vehicles for commercial fleet and passenger van conversions.

Shortage of Wheelchair Vans in Taxi Industry

A shortage of wheelchair available taxis has left many persons with specified desires with out access to reliable transportation in fundamental cities throughout the country. The hindrance in some areas is so extreme that residents have complained to metropolis leaders about the shortage of wheelchair obtainable taxis. People who're disabled need the dignity to be handled just like each person else. And requesting wheelchair obtainable taxis must be as effortless as it is for non-disabled passengers.

Handicap Accessible Limo Vans Shuttle Luxury Passengers in Exceptional Comfort, Style

Catering to the wishes of the growing numbers of high-finish consumers and luxury tourists requires concentration to detail at each flip. And limousine and transportation organizations that cater to the posh market are not any exception. However being equipped to provide a high level of relief at a fee where they may be able to flip a profit isn't consistently handy. With luxury spending probably unpredictable, transportation companies that cater to a excessive-end consumers have to make intelligent automobile investment picks.

Advantages of part Entry Conversion Vans

It’s all about making choices. And members with specials wishes wish to be in a position to pick the excellent conversion van that meets their needs whether or not it’s a rear entry or side entry model. Listed here, we are going to talk about the advantages of facet entry conversion vans.

Conversion Van Safety is a Very Special Need

There may be nothing extra principal when driving on the street than the safety of the occupants in a automobile. However with the intention to shield occupants, cars need to undergo rigorous testing to examine how it would hold up in a crash. When you consider that conversion vehicles are structurally modified for wheelchair accessibility and other unique wishes, they ought to be re-certified to meet Federal protection specifications. But not all conversion van producers crash test autos in the identical manner.

Taxi Cut Vs Long Cut Van Conversions

When for the reason that a van conversion, there are two styles to select from, lengthy reduce and taxi reduce. Understanding these styles will support you come to a decision which form of van is satisfactory to your desires.

Avoiding the Horrors of Conversion Van Nightmares

A conversion van is a valuable mobility help that contributors with unique needs and their households depend upon of their daily lives. Additionally, small business house owners and lots of others also need conversion vans for safely loading and unloading items, tools, apparatus and other heavy items.

Transformation Van Ramps Not Just For Wheelchairs

It is not uncommon for many individuals to associate ramps for conversion vans with wheelchair accessibility. And while van ramps are an indispensible mobility aid for individuals with special needs, many people are finding it a convenient solution for a variety of other uses around the home or office like safely loading and unloading items from a vehicle.

Many people don’t realize that lifting heavy objects can result in lower back pain and other back-related conditions. In addition, lifting objects greater than 50 pounds increases the risk of injury, according to the Occupational Safety Hazard Administration (OSHA). In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, lifting heavy objects is cited as one of the most common causes of injuries in the workplace. That’s why the U.S. Department of Labor recommends using mechanical equipment such as ramps when loading heavy items into a van.

A sturdy ramp is extremely useful for anyone with a camper, ATV, or a small business that needs to haul around supplies and equipment. The Q’Straint that secures the wheelchair in place can also be used to secure a utility cart, toolbox, and other similar objects in the vehicle. But for these types of household or commercial uses, it is important to consider the width of the ramp and whether or not it’s electronic or spring loaded, for instance.

While there are many types of ramps to choose from, a wider spring-action conversion van ramp is the optimum solution because it can accommodate a wider variety of needs and uses. Plus, since it’s operated manually you don’t have to worry about a motor rusting or burning out. You will always be able to depend on the ramp to be in working order whenever you need to use it.

Also, it is important to ensure that the ramp is well-manufactured, stable and secure. A ramp that is flimsy or has stability issues will not only make it more difficult for loading and unloading, it can become a safety hazard potentially causing someone to slip and fall.

With regards to ADA Compliance, Not All Mobility Vans are Created Equal

With an end goal to guarantee portability transformation vans are really open for wheelchair clients, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires least norms to be met. In any case, with regards to ADA consistence, not all wheelchair vans are made equivalent. Truth be told, some transformation van producers essentially meet the base ADA standard while others surpass them. There are a couple of things to search for while considering a versatility transformation van to guarantee an agreeable ride with abundant space for all travelers, rigging and effects.

Van Height and Headroom

The height of the lift entry is the most important aspect to consider in a conversion van. While most conversion van manufacturers meet the minimum 56-inch height standard, there are those that actually exceed it with 58 inches. This additional two inches of clearance makes a big difference for safely entering and exiting the van without risking a bump on the head. The additional headroom not only provides a more comfortable ride for taller passengers, it also makes it possible to load larger and bulkier items that may not otherwise fit through the door.

Interior Space

When looking at an empty conversion van it’s often hard to imagine what the interior space may feel like when loaded with passengers and other equipment. The interior width of most mobility vans is 32 inches. However, 34-inch wide vans are available such as in a Dodge Caravan, for example. A wider van has better weight distribution which reduces pressure on the vehicle’s axles. Also, wheelchair conversion vans with side entry doors do not have mid-row seating in order to accommodate the lift equipment. This results in less seating than its rear entry counterparts.

Squeezing into a fully loaded conversion van can easily become cramped and crowded. So, it’s always a good idea to make sure your special needs conversion van not only meets ADA standards, it exceeds them.

Why You Shouldn’t Compromise on a Used Mobility Conversion Van

A mobility conversion van gives you the freedom to move around and live a more independent lifestyle. The ability to go whenever and wherever you want that most non-disabled people take for granted. And although it may be tempting to save money on a used van, it may not give you the same mobility experience as a new wheelchair van. This is because conversion vans are customized to meet the mobility needs of each wheelchair user. So, buying a used mobility van means
you’re buying something that was outfitted for someone else.

Mobility Features

When you buy a used conversion van you’re stuck with the mobility features it has (or doesn’t have). There may be less room in the van for other passengers like your family and friends. The wheelchair lift may not function well or fit your wheelchair properly making it difficult to enter and exit the vehicle. Since the vehicle was customized for someone else’s mobility needs, you may not feel as comfortable either as a driver or a passenger.

Maintenance

Since maintenance and repair costs are higher on used vehicles, you could end up spending more time in the repair shop and less time on the road than you would like. Also, there may be excessive mileage and you will inherit any issues the van may already have. This alone is worth the extra cost of buying a new conversion van.

Safety

Even if the used vehicle is mechanically sound it could have prior damage or wear and tear that may reduce the level of safety. Also, the vehicle may not have been originally converted for wheelchair use by a mobility dealer. For the safety of you and your passengers, it is best to purchase a wheelchair conversion from a special needs mobility dealer that has crash-tested its vans and meets or exceeds all federal highway safety standards and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) requirements.
Often the cost difference between a used and new conversion van is not as great as you may believe. Also, there are a variety of ways to save money on a new van and still get all the mobility features you desire. For example, buying a conversion van with a manual wheelchair lift is less expensive than a motorized lift and it is just as easy to use. Plus, mobility conversion dealers have a variety of financing and payment options available that can help make your mobility conversion van a reality.

Side Entry Vs. Rear Entry Mobility Vans

There are basically two options for entering and exiting mobility vans: side entry or rear entry. While both are good options, most users will find that rear entry mobility vans are a more desirable option. This is because rear entry ramps offer a variety of advantages which are not available with a side entry ramp. Below you will learn a bit more about these unique benefits so that you can decide which option is right for your mobility needs.

Allows Mid-Row Passengers

With a side entry ramp, you will lose the second or middle row of seating in the van to accommodate wheelchair access. This can be a serious issue if you routinely transport other passengers who do not require the use of a wheelchair.

With a rear entry ramp, you will never need to worry about the side door being blocked allowing you to maintain that second row passenger seating. This means easier access for everyone.

It Is Easier to Park

Side entry ramps require you to have a considerable amount of clearance on the side of your van for the wheelchair lift. Also, when the side entry is blocked by a vehicle that parks too close to the van you will have to wait until the owner arrives and moves the vehicle so you can get in (or out) of your van. This can make it difficult to park in parking lots where vehicles are rather close together, even in handicap zones.

A rear entry ramp does not require that additional space in order to operate properly. You can enter and exit the wheelchair van without fear of the entry being blocked. This takes the headache out of parking when going to the doctor’s office, visiting local retailers and friends, or simply running errands.

Offers More Ground Clearance and Wider Ramps

Many wheelchair users may find that side entry ramps simply do not offer a high enough ground clearance to meet their special needs. This is not the case with rear entry ramps as they are positioned much higher off the ground, therefore allowing for maximum clearance and wider wheelchair ramps. Also, a wider entrance makes it easier for those who use a conversion van to haul motorcycles, ATV’s, camping gear, and other heavy equipment or bulky items. This provides maximum flexibility and convenience for both mobility and commercial conversion van users.

How to Find the Mobility Van Best for You

Whether you’re shopping for a mobility van for the first time or replacing an older model, a little planning goes a long way. In fact, it is the key to finding a safe, reliable and comfortable conversion van that best meets your special needs.

Mobility Features

Make a list of the mobility features you want. There are going to be features on your list that are a necessity while others may be nice to have. Keep in mind that there will be a cost for each feature, but there are ways to keep it down. For example, conversion vans with manual lifts are the least expensive so choosing this option makes room for some of the other features on your list. Also, rear entry vans often have the widest wheelchair ramps making it easier to enter and exit the vehicle. Keep this in mind while you’re looking around.

Inventory Selection

With a list of the mobility features you want its time to go shopping. Look for a conversion dealer with a large inventory selection of wheelchair conversion vans. This will make it easier to find the best conversion van with the mobility features that are most important to you in your price range. You may be able to find a van conversion dealer located near you.

Affordability

With affordability in mind, the most common conversion vans are Chrysler/Dodge and Toyota Sienna minivans. They are comfortable, accommodate up to seven passengers and are moderately priced so you can add several mobility features and still keep your final cost affordable. Also, make sure the mobility dealer provides a good warranty (3 year, 36,000 miles is standard) and will service the vehicle. This will help keep your vehicle maintenance costs low.

Financing

To achieve the lowest monthly payments, make sure the dealer offers a variety financing options and if there are any manufacturer rebates or other incentives available to lower the price. In some cases, the dealer may be able to help find alternative funding sources if you’re not able to secure traditional financing.

Why You Should Look For the Widest Wheelchair Ramps

You probably haven't given much thought about wheelchair ramps for vans until its time to use it. Then the wish list starts to flow. I wish it were a bit wider. I wish it wasn't as steep. I wish it was easier to use. You get the picture. It’s also important to keep in mind that while public and government spaces are required to comply with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards, compliance among vehicle manufacturers is voluntary. The following tips will help ensure you select the ramp that best meets your mobility needs.

Look for the widest ramps.

When you’re looking at conversion vans there are a lot of mobility choices. But one of the most important features not to overlook is the width of the ramp. By ensuring the van conversion has the widest ramp at 34 inches you will have peace of mind knowing that entering and exiting the van will be an easy task.

Insist on commercial grade flooring.

It’s important to keep in mind that you may need to travel during days of inclement weather. Many wheelchair ramps can get slippery when wet. So it’s important to be sure that the ramp you select is manufactured with a commercial grade non-slip floor. This will allow you to safely navigate the ramp in all weather conditions.

Watch out for the slope.

Speaking of safety, the slope merits consideration as well. If the ramp slope is too steep it will be like climbing uphill and rolling down like a roller coaster. The ADA recommends a 4.8 degree slope. This equates to approximately one inch of ramp for each inch of lift height. Of course, a manual ramp lift that extends outwards with a minimal slope is an ideal choice.

Visit a mobility conversion dealer for a test drive.

One of the best ways to determine whether a wheelchair ramp for a conversion vehicle will work for you is to visit a dealer and try it out. This will give you the opportunity to explore its ease of use and have the confidence of being able to safely and quickly enter and exit the vehicle on your own.

Affording the Wheelchair Van You Need (And Want)

If you or a loved one has a disability that requires the use of a wheelchair, finding the money to purchase the wheelchair accessible van that you need (and want) can seem overwhelming. However, before you find yourself overwhelmed by this purchase, you should know that there are plenty of financing options available that can make it significantly more affordable to own a wheelchair conversion van.

Charitable Grants

There are many charities that offer low-interest loans and even grants to disabled individuals who are in need of transportation. In many cases, these grants will not need to be repaid and can help to significantly offset the cost of your new conversion van.
If you are not familiar with the charitable organizations in your community, you may wish to contact your local Department of Human Services or a local advocacy office for a list of charities that may be able to help.

Conversion Van Dealers

A wheelchair conversion van dealer may be able to help you afford the wheelchair van with the mobility features you need and want. This is because many of the major vehicle manufacturers offer rebate programs to individuals with disabilities so that they can make their vehicle wheelchair accessible. Best of all, many of these rebate programs can be used in conjunction with other financing options.

Apply for Government Grants

In addition to grants offered by local charities; you may also qualify for grant programs through the federal and state governments. For instance, the Veterans Administration (VA) currently offers one time grants to disabled veterans who are in need of transportation. In order to qualify for this particular grant, you will need to be an active or an honorably discharged member of the military.

Consider a Low-Interest Loan

Many financial institutions and government agencies offer low-interest loans that are designed specifically for individuals with special needs. These loans are designed to provide the financing they need to purchase a new or used wheelchair accessible conversion van without accruing large amounts of debt in the process. Unlike traditional auto and personal loans, these special loans often offer more favorable interest rates and flexible repayment plans. Furthermore, these loans will often be made available to disabled individuals despite some past credit mistakes. Consequently, even individuals who may not qualify for a traditional loan may be able to qualify for an auto loan through this type of alternative financing.

Manual Lift Vs. Motorized Lift for Special Needs Conversion Vans

 

A motorized lift for your special needs conversion van may sound appealing, until the day the motor gives out. Where will you be when it happens? Stuck inside the van wanting to get out or outside wanting to get in? Either way, it’s a bad position to be in.

A manual lift is easy to operate and will allow you to avoid some of the pitfalls that come along with motorized lifts. Aside from not having to worry about the motor breaking down, here are four advantages of a manual wheelchair lift for special needs conversion vans:

Manual Lifts Are More Affordable

Converting your van to accommodate your mobility needs shouldn’t have to break the bank. A manual lift is a less costly option and easier to maintain. Plus, it offers more convenient accessibility such as rear entry and wider ramps. And choosing a manual lift will leave you with more cash to invest in other accessibility features.

You Never Have To Worry About Motor Repairs

Like all motorized products, power wheelchair lifts will inevitably fail. Maybe even when you least expect it. In some cases, this failure will be due to freezing gears during the cold winter months. Other times, it may simply be the result of old age or worn parts. However, the fact is, no matter the cause of the motor failure, it can easily leave you stranded without the ability to either get into or out of your van.

When using a manual lift, you will never need to worry about your lift giving out. This will allow you to drive with confidence knowing you can always get in and out even if you do not have someone there to assist you.

Manual Lifts Are Lightweight

As you can probably imagine, motorized lifts are much heavier than manual lifts due to the need for a motor and other mechanical parts. This excess weight can result in unnecessary stress on your vehicle and make it harder to operate your lift.

Look for manual lifts that are extremely lightweight, but sturdy. This feature helps to reduce stress on your vehicle, ultimately resulting in the need for fewer repairs over the years.

Manual Wheelchair Lifts Are Easy to Operate

Manual wheelchair lifts are extremely user friendly. In fact, these lifts can often be operated with just the simple push of a button. It’s so simple that anyone can operate it.

Image credit: Daniel Lobo | Flickr

Get Cooking: Guidelines for an Accessible Kitchen

In November it’s impossible not to think of family time, thankfulness and food. Lots of food. If you or a family member use a wheelchair, it doesn’t mean that a chef’s hat is out of the question. Here are a few guidelines to make sure that your kitchen is accessible to every willing cook in your family. Start planning your dream accessible kitchen today! 

1. Kitchen Counters: Accessible countertops need to be a little lower to the ground. Instead of the average 36”, your workspace should be 34” high and 30” wide to ensure that you have enough space to accommodate all the chopping and baking in your future. Eliminate base cabinets to allow easy access to your countertops.
2. Kitchen Sink: You will also need to allow ample knee space under your kitchen sink — at least 27” high and 8” deep. Placing the drain near the back of the sink will give you more room, too. Any exposed pipes should be insulated to protect your knees and toes in that space. When you’re picking a faucet consider placing a single lever model on the side or investing in a touch activated spout for even easier accessibility. 
3. Kitchen Storage: Much like kitchen counters, accessible kitchen cabinets need to be lower in an accessible kitchen. Think smart when organizing and put commonly used items in lower, easy to grab places. If you’re willing to splurge, consider height adjustable cabinets. If that’s not in the budget consider accessories like pull down shelves, divided drawers and Lazy Susan organizers.
4. Kitchen Appliances:
   • Ranges: Make sure your range has flat, front-facing controls for easy access and minimal interference with your clothes and chair as you pass buy.
   • Ovens: An oven with a side swing door offers the best safety and accessibility.
   • Microwaves: Height is key when placing your microwave. Try to ensure the controls are no higher than 48” off the floor.
   • Refrigerators: Your refridgerator choice depends on your cooking style. If you usually reach for fresh ingredients, consider a traditional freezer-top model. If you rely on frozen foods, go for a fridge with the freezer on bottom.
   • Dishwashers: Make sure that your dishwasher is at least 12” off the floor. A single drawer might be the most accessible option for you.
5. Kitchen Floorspace: First, make sure you can enter the kitchen. The entry way should be at least 36” or 42” for optimal comfort. If you have a pass-through kitchen, you’ll need at least 40” of width. U-shaped kitchens should be at least 60” wide for a wheelchair user.

 With our recipe for accessible kitchen success, you can make sure that everyone in your family can be a gourmet. Some updates are as simple as a trip to the store — like grabbing a few Lazy Susans or rearranging your drawer organization — while others will take some planning and budgeting ahead.

 Remember to check our blog often and follow us on Facebook to get the latest on how to make accessibility as simple as possible for your family.

Helping Loved Ones Stay Comfortable In Their Wheelchairs

Although modern electric wheelchairs are a hundred times more accommodating and functional than they were a few decades ago, it can still be difficult for people who use a wheelchair to feel comfortable all the time. These tips may help eliminate some of the discomfort caused by remaining in an upright position during the day and possibly help improve their overall quality of life.

Wear Adaptive Clothing
Adaptive clothing is especially designed for wear by people with mobility issues and incorporates velcro closures instead of zippers, smoother seams or elimination of seams and pull-on capability facilitated by adding extra room to neck and arm areas.

Choose a Wheelchair that Accommodates Your Needs
The selection of wheelchairs available today is extensive and diverse. Since most of them can be customized to address a person’s unique needs, there is no need for anybody with mobility issues to suffer unnecessarily from an uncomfortable or inappropriately constructed wheelchair. Physicians suggest measuring a person’s body dimensions before purchasing a wheelchair and determining which support accessories (foot, arm and neck support, if necessary) are best suited to minimize discomfort for the user.

Amazing Wheelchair Accessories

• Arm rest pads made of sheepskin helps reduce friction and pressure that may tear sensitive skin and induce bed sores.
• Cushioned foam pads covered in easy-to-clean durable vinyl that can be attached to foot rests to provide extra support and improve posture.
• Wheelchair headrests that are adjustable (depth and height) for maximum comfort and can be attached without tools.
• Seat and back pads offering pressure management, no-skid bases and high-quality, antimicrobial materials.
• Weather chaps lined with removable fleece cover the lap, feet and leg snugly to keep wheelchair users warm and comfortable outside.

For more information about enhancing the wheelchair user’s experience as well as learning about the many mobility options available that can reinforce the user’s sense of independence and well-being, call FR Conversions today to speak to one of our friendly representatives.

5 Great Resources for People with Disabilities

Local, state and federal governments have a variety of resources available to people with all types of disabilities. Unfortunately, many of these services go unused because they are not well-known or disabled individuals and their loved ones don’t think such resources actually exist.

Here are five resources that may be able to provide some financial, legal, medical or psychological support to help you through a crises or just to improve your individual circumstances.

1.The National Disability Rights Network

The NDRN offers legal services for any U.S. citizen with a disability. Issues handled by this agency involve emergency management for the disabled, neglect/abuse cases, community integration and employment discrimination.

2. The U.S. Department of Educations Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services

OSERS provides information and free education/ training programs to caregivers of disabled children as well as those who work with disabled children.

3. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development

HUD offers resources for individuals with disabilities who are seeking suitable housing that accommodates their disability. They also provide information regarding the rights of people with disabilities for adequate housing and helps implement financial aid programs to help pay for such housing.

4. National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped

The NLS is a department of the Library of Congress that operates a free loan service consisting of Braille and recorded printed material, music written in Braille and playback equipment designed to play back audio materials. Direct services can be accessed through network of cooperating libraries.

5. Disability.gov–Just Dial 211

All 50 states utilize the 211 service, which connects people with disabilities to essential community services. Dialing 211 is free, confidential and gives you information about transportation services, health care, food pantries and more. In addition here is another link with more information that can help disabled individuals maintain the higher quality of life they deserve. Another helpful resource is the Disability Information and Resources website which you can visit here.

FR Conversions has been making mobility affordable since 2009 and specializes in low cost, simple, rugged wheelchair-accessible vans with rear entry conversions. With our focus on quality and user experience, we maximize space and use fewer proprietary parts for less costly and less complicated future vehicular repairs. Contact our accessibility experts today at 888-846-8624.