Making Your Home or Office Handicap Accessible

It is important for people with disability whether temporary or permanent to continue their everyday jobs and chores with ease and comfort. If you are planning to make your home or office handicap friendly and accessible, then you may want to check the simple yet helpful guidelines below:


Home Tips:

Doors:
It should be wide enough to allow walker and wheelchair access.  If the doorway is positioned in a typical hallway and needs turning a wheelchair, then you will need a wider door and floor space. 


Bathtubs:
Bathtub and shower grab bars should be installed in order to provide support.  You can also place a tub transfer seat that allows persons to sit in the tub and take a bath or shower.  In this way, the person does not necessarily have to lower himself to the tub floor. 

Toilet seat:
The height can be customize and adapted from one individual to another.  It can be replaced with raised seats or other special units.  Installing toilet grab bars can be very useful in providing individuals safety transfer from and to a wheelchair. 


Sinks and faucets:
Vanity cabinets may be removed from below the sink.  Pedestal style sinks can provide more space to maneuver.  You can also replace faucets with single lever controls.  But consider using an anti-scald temperature control to prevent water temperature from going beyond its limit. 


Office Tips:

Office location:
The workplace must be located as near as possible to public transportation routes – subway stops and bus shelters.  There must be curb cuts in the blocks around the building for people using wheelchairs or scooters. 

Parking space:
Persons with disabilities should be reserved with designated parking areas and properly marked.  It must be next to the building entrance.  Spaces should be enough to have room when transferring from wheelchair to vehicle. 

Buildings:   
It should be visibly marked with suitably big and legible signage to prevent any difficulty for people with visual disabilities.  The signage must be immediately noticeable upon entering the building.  It has to indicate locations of elevators, offices, rest rooms and other facilities. 

Travel path:
When there is a change in level of travel path inside or outside the building, elevators, ramps or other facilities should be provided.  This allows the person to reach the other level without the need to use the stairs or escalators.


Entrances:
Building entrances must have electric, automatic hinged or sliding doors except when existing doors are wide enough to accommodate passage of wheelchairs.  The doors must permit trouble-free clearance for people in wheelchairs when opened.

Rest rooms:
Its doors are recommended to be automatic.  There should be at least 1 sink reachable to persons using wheelchairs.  Horizontal bars should be positioned on the wall side of the stall closest to the toilet.  Soap or towel dispensers must be also reachable to persons in wheelchairs.  

The guidelines mentioned will not only provide our handicap friends with convenience but most importantly it can help them become more productive and efficient individuals despite their health conditions.

Mobility Scooters and Electric Wheelchairs: A Comparison

Several mobility aids are widely available for physically handicapped individuals. These may vary from conventional canes and walkers to much sophisticated electric powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters. The latter two can bring greater freedom and independence to disabled persons. Hence, this article will be comparing the mentioned mobility aids to help those concerned individuals to decide which of the two they will purchase for themselves, or for their loved ones who need it.

Both mobility aids utilize the same types of rechargeable batteries. They can also run as far as 15 miles or more before requiring battery recharging. Also, both mobility scooters and electric wheelchairs can accommodate a weight of 500 pounds, or greater. Lastly, the controls for speed and acceleration are similar for both mobility vehicles.

In terms of cost, electric wheelchairs are considered as the most expensive among all mobility vehicles. The advanced power, speed, and features of such wheelchairs can cost as much as, or even exceed, the price of average automobiles. The price of electric wheelchairs can be as much as $15,000. On the other hand, mobility scooters are more cost-effective. The deluxe types of such vehicles can only cost a small fraction of an electric wheelchair’s price, that is, from $1,000 up to $5,000.

For storage purposes, mobility scooters are more convenient than electric wheelchairs. Mobility scooters may be folded or dismantled and can be expediently kept in a closet or be transported in a car’s trunk. On the contrary, electric wheelchairs are very heavy and are not foldable primarily because of the sturdy materials that they are made of. Such properties make these types of wheelchairs hard to keep or transport.

To achieve optimum comfort, the adjustability of some features on both mobility aids is of major importance. The seats, armrests, and footrests of electric wheelchairs can be accordingly angled and adjusted for comfort. The seats and handlebars of mobility scooters can also be adjusted for the same purpose.

An electric mobility scooter can be steered using handlebars like that with a bicycle while an electric wheelchair makes use of a joystick.

Individuals with problems on mobility of the upper portion of their bodies may find electric wheelchairs easier to manipulate compared to mobility scooters. For those with impaired postures, electric wheelchairs may include motorized reclined, tilt, and stand options for support. Also, wheelchairs are more comfortable for those who require spending most of their time in their mobility aids.

So, which of the two aforementioned mobility assistance vehicles is best for you? We have compared the electric wheelchair and mobility scooters. This is surely a great help for affected individuals to make a wise and informed decision on which one to purchase. Either of them will tremendously aid a mobility impaired individual to become more self-reliant and to move around better. But in the end, your decision whether to buy an electric wheelchair or an electric mobility scooter will greatly depend on your personal needs, preferences and budget. If you can comfortably mount a scooter then go for it, otherwise if balance is an issue, it will be safer to ride the wheelchair type.

The SunRunner 3 by ShopRider

Many people across the United States, Canada, and the rest of the World, rely on mobility scooters to help them move around freely and without assistance. Mobility scooters are electric powered personal mobility devices that can be used both indoors and outdoors. There are several prominent companies that manufacture mobility scooters. One company that has several very popular models is ShopRider Mobility Products.

ShopRider first began to manufacture electric mobility scooters in the late 80’s. They have continued to make quality products that have won several awards. The SunRunner 3 is one of ShopRider’s best selling units and is packed with special features. There is a 3-wheeled and a 4-wheeled SunRunner available. The 3-wheeled SunRunner has a much smaller turning radius, but is not as stable as the 4-wheeled SunRunner. This makes the 3-wheeled SunRunner better suited for indoors where there is often a need for higher maneuverability.

The SunRunner is designed to travel around 25 miles per charge and can achieve speeds of up to 5 miles per hour. The swivel seat is very comfortable and because it swivels is much easier to enter and exit the unit. The width of the armrests can also be adjusted. The SunRunner 3 can support up to 300 pounds and weighs less than 180 pounds. It can be broken down into 4 easy to handle pieces, with the heaviest one being only 42 pounds, which makes it very easy to transport without the need for purchasing a vehicle lift.

The SunRunner 3 by ShopRider is a very versatile and durable unit. It can be used indoors as well as out. There are several other fine products by ShopRider that are also very affordable and they have excellent warranties and customer service.

Buying Mobility Scooters Wisely

A mobility scooter can better lead your way to freedom and independence.
Mobility scooters are great investments that can be enjoyed for several years. Therefore, one should carefully choose the mobility scooter that will best suit his/her needs.

Here is a list of guide questions that can help you buy the most essential and appropriate mobility scooter for you.

1. Will the mobility scooter be used to travel indoors or outdoors?

If you intend to travel your mobility scooter indoors, like inside the home or at the malls, a compact type of mobility scooter with easy maneuverability and a fixed turning radius is the right option. On the other hand, when traveling outdoors are considered, like on highways or difficult landscapes, a sturdier and more rugged mobility scooter that has the capability to pass through rougher roads/grounds is recommended. Speed and stability must also be considered for long outdoor travels. Also, it is important to note that mobility scooters that will travel on main roads should be equipped with taillights and headlights with speed of 8 mph minimum, as provided by law.

2. Do you intend to navigate difficult terrains?

If it would be necessary for you to pass through rough roads like curbs or steep hills, a mobility scooter with four wheels may provide you with extra power and stability to deal with obstacles.

3. Is the mobility scooter comfortable for you?

In choosing a mobility scooter, the support and room of a 3-wheeled scooter will best accommodate the length of your legs. For individuals who find it difficult to sit upright, the stability of a 4-wheeled scooter is a perfect choice. Also, a seat that swivels can add more comfort for trouble-free way to get in and out of the vehicle.

4. Do you need a mobility scooter that can be easily stored and transported?

Some mobility scooters can be folded and be fitted in the boot of your car. And many of these scooters can also be dismantled and re-assembled with no tools necessary. If you own a large automobile, bringing along a fixed and full-sized mobility scooter will not be any trouble. However, for a safer and more convenient travel, as well as for easy storage, compact and foldable mobility scooters will make a brilliant choice.

5. Do you want to include accessories in your mobility scooter?

Certain models of mobility scooters feature a variety of accessories that are both stylish and functional. Some may include canopies to protect the occupant from the rain while others may have storage for cargoes or crutches. Scooter accessories can be personalized according to the preference of the buyer or eventual user.

6. Where do you like to purchase your mobility scooter?

The conventional way of buying mobility scooters is purchasing them offline at dedicated mobility stores and dealers. But with the popularity of the Internet nowadays, online shopping for mobility scooters are becoming a hit. Many online stores offer free door-to-door shipping and an exchange/return policy for defective or unsatisfactory mobility scooters.

Buying a mobility scooter may be somehow overwhelming, so think first before purchasing. Be a wise consumer! GP

Advantages of a Mobility Scooter

It can be very hard for someone who has led an independent life to accept that they might not be able to move like they used to. Often as our body begins to age, it can become difficult to walk. This can be due to things such as arthritis, osteoarthritis, injury, and disease. Whatever the cause, the inability to walk does not have to mean the inability to freely move and many have discovered the wonderful service that a mobility scooter can provide.

Taking trips to the shopping center, mall, or even amusement parks can be done easily and freely on a mobility scooter. Mobility scooters are personal mobility devices that utilize an electric motor to easily and efficiently transport a single individual. Many people also invest in scooter bags or baskets and are able to do their grocery shopping easily and without any assistance.

One of the major advantages to a mobility scooter is that it is very easy and simple to operate. Most use a set of handle bars that is attached to an adjustable post called a tiller. The tiller can be positioned nearer or farther from the seated individual to accommodate individuals of differing sizes. The accelerator can typically be easily controlled by a single finger or the thumb and most have an automatic breaking system, so you need only use one lever and do not need to worry about a brake pedal or lever.

The range that a mobility scooter can travel varies depending on the model. Some units can travel significantly over 30 miles per charge and at speeds of over 10 mile per hour, but most travel around 5 miles per hour and over distances of 10 – 20 miles per charge. The weight capacity of these units also varies by model, but some can support in excess of 500 pounds. Many people find that by purchasing an extra battery and ensuring that it always stays charged; they can effectively and inexpensively double the range of their mobility device.

For people who have difficulty walking or moving, a mobility scooter provides a very easy to use and reliable means of transportation. This in turn ensures that they retain their independence and also their freedom.

Accessorizing and Maintaining Your Mobility Scooters

Generally, mobility scooters may be modified to suit the eventual user’s needs. Customizing a mobility scooter primarily depends on the preferences of the user, as well as the model of the scooter. Accessorizing your mobility vehicle is not just for aesthetics purposes, but also to maximize the use of such mobility aid.

Bigger batteries are heavier and are more expensive. Such rechargeable batteries may cover longer distance but may also require longer recharging time. So, instead of buying or adding extra batteries, try upgrading your old scooter’s battery, this can be a more cost effective option.

Tires may also be customized to withstand rougher roads or longer journeys. Pneumatic tires ensure a comfortable and relaxing ride. For optimum benefits, such tires may also be made puncture-proof to keep them safe and protected from accidental punctures along the way.

Other mobility scooters may include a tiller to be used in controlling the scooter. Delta tillers are actually levers that require pushing/pulling by one hand to move the scooter forward/backward.

A certain holder may be featured in a mobility scooter to contain a walking stick or a crutch that you need to carry along wherever you may go. A holder for oxygen cylinder is also available for the scooter.

Mirrors on the rear view may also be provided to make reverse parking easier to do.

A relatively large bag or a rather small pouch may also be added to the mobility scooter to hold bigger items (grocery/shopping goods) and smaller things (keys/mobile phone), respectively.

Some mobility scooters may come with capes and canopies to protect both the user and the scooter from bad weather conditions. Replacement covers are also available, depending on your scooter’s model and type.

Aluminum or fiberglass foldable ramps for your mobility scooters are also obtainable to help you get the scooter inside the house or up the garage.

Maintenance Issues

After you have finished accessorizing your mobility scooter, you may find it encouraging enough to drive it around. With regular use, it is also important that you know how to properly care for your mobility scooter to maintain its dependable and acceptable performance.

First and foremost, you should be able to follow the recommendations of the manufacturer as stated in the manual of the mobility scooter. Some scooter batteries require recharging every after use while others require recharging only when the battery indicator tells that the battery charge is already low.

Just like typical cars, a mobility scooter will also require regular service and check-up. You can read the frequency of service/check-up that your mobility scooter requires in the manual enclosed in the box when you first bought your scooter. Generally, mobility scooters require annual servicing. Some maintenance checks are necessary every week or every month like pumping the tires up or adding grease to the hubs. Checking the mechanism of the seat is also customary as well as the brake pads.

The frameworks of most mobility scooters are made from steel or plastic and are thus subject to normal wear-and-tear. Mobility scooters can continuously provide freedom and self-reliance. You can make sure of this when they are cared for properly.

New vs Used Mobility Scooters

Many people who consider buying a mobility scooter to restore their mobility and independence often consider purchasing a used one mobility scooter to save money. Auctions sites, such as Ebay, offer what seems to be good deals on power wheel chairs and scooters. The rule for buying merchandise off of Ebay and similar web sites is caveat emptor. Caveat Emptor is a Latin phrase that means let the buyer beware. Even the new mobility scooters that are sold on Ebay can suffer from poor quality, especially if the product is not made by a reliable manufacturer. Many new discount scooters sold on online auction sites are mass produced in China, where the labor costs are low. The concern of discount scooter manufacturers is quantity rather than quantity. The best strategy for buying a reliable new mobility scooter is to purchase only brand names that you recognize that are known to be of consistent quality. Buying any used product involves certain inherent risks. Anyone who has bought a used car knows this rule, as dealers are known to not tell a buyer about mechanical faults t in the vehicles they sell. The private deals under which used mobility scooters are purchased may not suffer from this sort of dishonest behavior, but the scooters former owner who does not need the product or never needed the mobility scooter in the first place are not professional mechanics in most cases. The batteries of used mobility scooters may be worn down, and brake problems often develop after prolonged use. Buying a new battery or having someone available to fix the brakes of a used scooter may be a solution, but it is often more trouble than it is worth. The seat likely has also conformed to the body contours of the scooter's previous owner. Buying a new mobility scooter made by a recognized manufacturer ensures that mechanical faults are not present, and if faults are present, a manufacturer's warranty covers the cost or repairs or replacement parts. In extreme cases where the vehicle is beyond repair, provision may be made for a new scooter to be sent to the buyer. You can save money buying a used mobility scooter if you shop around carefully. Considering that it is often a medical necessity for the user to buy one, it is better to buy a brand new scooter to avoid many of the pitfalls and frustrations that come with buying a used product. Manufacturer warranties change the buyer's guideline from caveat emptor to caveat vendor. The latter Latin phrase simply means let the seller beware. Which is just a fancy way of saying sellers make mechanical faults in the scooter the responsibility of the manufacturer.