Fun Hobbies for Wheelchair Users to Unleash Creativity

In a time in which many people have more free time than possibly ever before, picking up some new hobbies or skills can be both productive and good for our overall well-being. For some people with disabilities, many outdoor activities can be a challenge due to limited access or the summer heat. But, luckily, there are plenty of cool activities to do inside. If you’re bored and looking for a fun new way to pass the time while also gaining a sense of accomplishment, then you came to the right place! We put together a list of hobbies for wheelchair users you can try!! Who knows? You may discover some remarkable new talent that has been waiting to be revealed!

Awaken Your Inner Artist Did you know some of the most famous artists in the world didn’t start painting or sculpting until later in life? Some didn’t even begin to dabble in their craft until their 30’s, 40’s, 50’s and even later. For people that enjoy art that has never considered themselves an artist, taking the plunge or even giving themselves permission to try can be intimidating. But, if there is any part of you that has yearned to create something, now is the time! If you are able to get outside, photography is another great skill to hone. A simple smartphone can capture beautiful, high-quality images, with a little instruction on framing, lighting, and focus point. If you’re interested in really developing your skill, consider an online class or a video series.

Learn a New Language or Instrument Learning a foreign language is another great way to unlock creative parts of our brain that may not be used very often. There’s a free, user-friendly app called Duolingo that is the perfect place to get started. Whether you’re starting from the beginning on a new language or picking up where you left off in high school, Duolingo’s placement test and bite-sized lessons can deliver just what you need to increase your vocabulary and comprehension. There is a large selection of languages to pick from and users can even learn multiple at once!

Do you have an old guitar or ukulele laying around the house? Or maybe a piano or keyboard in the spare room? How about a harmonica in your junk drawer? Well, why not dust them off and put them to use?! Learning a new instrument can be a fun and rewarding way to pass the time! Just like the instructional videos mentioned above, YouTube is a fantastic, free resource for music lessons and instrument tutorials. If you prefer interaction with a live person, many music teachers are offering virtual lessons right now. Just Google someone in your area!

Journaling and Writing For many people, journaling helps with emotional expression and for generating new ideas that may not have been uncovered otherwise. Getting our thoughts down, either by writing, typing, or using dictation programs, can even feel liberating! Sometimes the act of getting the ideas and feeling out is therapeutic enough, but going back and reading our own thoughts later can also have a powerful impact on our self-perception. There are also many people out there that have dreamed of writing a book or poetry. Others have always wanted to write songs. Whatever your motivation for writing, the first step is to just get started. Writing in a journal that is potentially forever private can be a less intimidating way to begin your journey as a writer - and you can share your work when and if you feel comfortable. Again, check the Internet for tutorials, writing prompts, and other resources to help develop your skills when you’re ready! Whatever your passion is, from art to music, and everything in between, we wish you luck! To learn more about AMS Vans, view our inventory or find out about our rental program,