Opinion and Discussion

So often in life, there are no easy answers to problems we face. The only way to solve them is to gather as much information as possible and let everyone contribute to the conversation. That’s why we have a special category reserved to provide a forum for opinions and discussion about various subjects. When we keep an open mind and welcome the ideas and experiences of others, we sometimes learn something that may change our point of view. Everyone is encouraged to participate. You may change someone’s mind today!

4 Futuristic Wheelchair Models You Simply Must See

Up until the present day, the typical design of the wheelchair models used by persons with disabilities has generally followed a somewhat dedicated commitment to function over form. From the introduction of the first lightweight, steel, folding, portable wheelchair in 1933 — a model known as the ‘X-brace’ — advances in the design and technology of newer machines have come periodically.

Factors in the advancement of wheelchair models — including propulsion method, control mechanism, and technology — are generally influenced by purpose and price. Newer wheelchair model categories include manual self-propelled, single-arm drive, reclining, standing, sports, and all-terrain designs that serve to enhance mobility freedom for their users.

As the focus on improving the mobility and lifestyles of persons with disabilities continue to garner attention, newer technologies and evolved creativity are responsible for four truly unique wheelchair models. Our post today highlights some remarkable wheelchairs — and how these designs enhance the mobility freedom of the people who use them. Continue reading →

Adapt and Overcome! 5 Successful People With Physical Disabilities

Sometimes the most powerful way to find the motivation you need to get over life’s hurdles is to learn about others who have overcome incredible odds to find success. It doesn’t even have to be someone in your profession or someone with the same goals that you have. Because in the end, we all face the same variety of challenges in one form or another — presence of fear, lack of opportunity, physical or mental health limitations, financial setbacks — and we’re all trying to find a way to beat the odds.

So, today’s post is designed to give you that motivation — no matter what your goal in life is and no matter what your personal challenges might be — by learning more about those who have succeeded in the face of remarkable odds. You can learn a lot from these 5 stories of people with physical disabilities who rose to the top of their chosen professions by adapting to their environment and never giving up. Consider their stories, apply them to your own life, and perhaps you can turn your difficulties into a story of success. Continue reading →

New Research Methods Empower Persons with Physical Disabilities

If you haven’t been keeping up with the latest advances in research for solutions to enhance the lives of those with physical disabilities, you might be surprised at what’s become possible. From improvements in prosthetic options to advancements in employment psychology, let’s run down the list of how science is working to enhance the lives of this unique community.

With the recent spotlight on physical disabilities — both from legal and functional standpoints — a great deal of progress has been made in improving capabilities and enhancing lives. The combination of science and technology has brought about advancements in both quality of life and the ability of persons with physical disabilities to contribute in the workplace. Continue reading →

What Makes a Handicap Wheelchair Van ADA-Compliant?

In 1990, Congress signed into a law an historic piece of legislation designed to protect individuals with disabilities. The American with Disabilities Act changed the disabled community forever — particularly with respect to employment, government services, public accommodations, commercial facilities, and transportation. And, later, 42 U.S.C. § 12101 changed the way this country made the handicap wheelchair van…

Which is precisely what we’re going to discuss in today’s post. A set of revised, enforceable accessibility standards called the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design outlined specific characteristics for wheelchair vans. These standards improved significantly the safety and security for passengers of adaptable mobility vehicles. Although they are not required in every vehicle, buying a handicap wheelchair van for the ADA-compliant label is an assurance of quality and safety. Continue reading →