Handicap Equipment

Handicap Door Openers

Thu, 18 Sep 2008 04:46:00 +0000

Are you looking for a commercial or residential handicap door opener?
Do you need a remote controlled automatic door opener or one with a wall switch / touch panel?
Can it be installed without modifying the door or wall?
What kind of power source does it use?
Does it come with complete installation instructions and a manual?
How much maintenance will it need besides lubricating it with oil and grease?
Do you need a left handed, right handed or a voice controlled handicap door opener?
Does it come with a door closer?
Is the door hold opening time adjustable to make it more accessible?
Can the door be easily opened manually without resistance from the device?
If it is motorized, does it operate smooth and quiet?
Will it stop operating if it meets resistance?

Handicap RV

Thu, 14 Aug 2008 07:06:03 +0000

Are you looking to rent or buy the RV?
Do you want a new or used handicap RV?
Will the lift fit your wheelchair or handicap scooter?
Does the handicap accessible RV have enough space so that you can easily maneuver a wheelchair or scooter inside?
Do you need a roll in handicap shower or a walk in tub?
Does it have a support grab rail for safe transfer?
Is the undercoating chip resistant and will it reduce noise from the outside?
Is the exterior finish UV resistant to prevent oxidation and fading?
Is it equipped with fabric protection?
If it is used, how many previous owners has it had and has it been involved in any accidents?
What kind of road hazard protection and physical damage insurance is offered?
Can the dealer offer you life, accident and health disability insurance?
Is there a 24 / 7 emergency roadside assistance program?
What about a toll-free technician hotline?
What kind of warranty is offered?
Can the dealer help you with the financing?

Stair Wheelchair Lifts

Wed, 13 Aug 2008 09:18:24 +0000

Do you need a stair wheelchair lift or a regular stair lift?
Does it have to be portable?
What kind of wheelchair do you own? Is it compatible with the model you have chosen?
Do you have a load bearing wall to mount the stair wheelchair lift on?
Will the lift be able to support your weight?
Is there enough space at the top and bottom of the stairs?
Do you need a model for straight or curved stairs?
Will it be used indoors or outdoors?
Do you need a enclosed model?
Do the stairs offer enough room for you and your wheelchair?
Will there be any reconstruction necessary and if so, how much will it cost?
Does it have a fail safe braking system?
If you buy a used lift, will there still be a warranty from the dealer or manufacturer?
Does the control panel have a alarm button and a emergency lowering switch?
Is it equipped with a grab rail?
Can the dealer offer it in a variety of colors?
Is the manufacturer ISO certified?
Will the government or your insurance company pay for the lift?
Can your dealer offer assist you with the funding details?
Does it comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)?

Wheelchair Accessories

Wed, 13 Aug 2008 07:41:05 +0000

Accessories For Your Manual, Transport Or Electric Wheelchair

Wheelchair seat backpack
Saddle bags that can be strapped to the armrest
Clothes guards that will keep your clothes from being caught in the wheels
Spoke guards
Wheelchair drink holders, static and folding models
Hands free drink holder with a tube
Trays that can be used as tables
Cane carriers
Leather racing gloves to protect your hands
Seat and back cushions with foam, gel or air
Bariatric, Tempur or self cooling cushions
Cushion and armrest covers
Umbrellas and canopies
Wheelchair covers
Foldable handicap ramps
Wheelchair lifts and carriers for handicap vans
Clip on ashtray
Laptop desk
Footrest covers
Single and dual foot support
Fishing pole holder
Push handle
Shock absorbers for the tires
Ergonomic hand rims
Brake locks

Handicap Shower Accessories

Mon, 11 Aug 2008 10:39:33 +0000

Accessories that will make your handicap shower more accessible

Angled safety grab rails
Flip up / swing up grab bars
Portable grab bar with suction cups
Foldable handicap shower seat
Floor mounted soft shower seat
Sliding transfer bench
Manual or battery powered handicap bathtub lift
Shower doors without a bottom track
Collapsible shower thresholds that will allow easy wheelchair access while keeping water from escaping
Walk in tubs with with transfer ledges
Removable fiberglass wheelchair ramp
Convertible tubs that can be changed into showers
Single handle chrome plated mixing valves with anti scalding function
Height adjustable shower head
Slip resistant handicap shower pans
Non slip rubber mat

Handicap Scooter Accessories

Wed, 18 Jun 2008 12:59:08 +0000

Accessories that will make your handicap scooter more pleasant to use

Basket
Rear basket
Seat bag
Drink holder
Basket liner and cover
Storage cover
Control panel cover
Seat cover
Leg cape
Rain cape
Scooter canopy
Foldable PVC garage
Roll up ramp
Telescopic ramp
Threshold ramp
Reflective sticker strips
Reflective waistcoat
Arm rest pouch
Long life battery
Puncture sealant
Oxygen bottle holder
Walking frame holder
Walking stick holder
Crutch / cane holder
Personalized registration plate

Walk In Tubs

Wed, 07 May 2008 15:56:17 +0000

How much do you plan on investing in your walk in tub?
Will the walk in tubs you are looking at offer easy accessibility for someone with your needs?
Could it be easily installed in your bathroom without any expensive reconstruction?
Is the dealer located near you so you can try the model before deciding to buy?
Do you need a bath tub with a seat, a door, hydrotherapy, whirlpool or a jacuzzi function?
Does the overall quality seem to be up to par?
Does it have a anti scalding function?
Do you need a oversized walk in tub?
How long does it take to fill it?
Does it have a outward swinging door thus making it easy to drain?
Is it ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) approved?
Have already chosen which brand you prefer, Premier, Safety Tubs, DCE, MediTub, Comfort Bath etc?

Handicap Parking Signs

Tue, 06 May 2008 18:03:08 +0000

According to the ADA (Americans With Disabilities) regulations you are supposed to provide designated handicap accessible parking spaces if providing those is readily achievable. An handicap accessible parking space must have enough space for a vehicle and an enough free space located on one of the sides of the parking space that can be used as an accessible path.

This extra space is there to allow a person using a mobility device for example a wheelchair or electric handicap scooter, to be able to exit their van. A handicap parking sign with the international standard symbol of accessibility must be placed in front of the parking space and mounted so high that it is not hidden by a vehicle parked in that space.

Handicap Shower Chairs And Seats

Fri, 02 May 2008 16:37:10 +0000

Do you want a handicap shower chair in aluminum or PVC plastic?
Does your shower have enough space for the chair?
Will you need one of the models with height adjustable seats?
Do you need leg support, adjustable footrests or flip-up arms?
How about sturdy armrests for pushing yourself up from the seat?
What is the maximum weight capacity?
Do you want one with a padded seat?
Does it have to be foldable?
Will it suffice for you or do you need a heavy duty handicap shower chair?

Handicap Playgrounds

Fri, 02 May 2008 15:51:02 +0000

Does it specifically offer handicap accessible playground equipment?
Does the playground offer activities for wheelchair bound kids?
Does it offer activities that are safe for those who are visually impaired or blind?
Is it easy to access for parents with disabilities so they can play with their children?
Can it offer a pathway of steps or ramps thus making i easier to access the upper levels?
Can it offer rehabilitative equipment for those in need of that?
How long will it take to install?
Does the playground comply with the ADA (American with Disabilities Act)?

Handicap Parking Permit

Fri, 02 May 2008 09:37:35 +0000

In USA

To be eglible for a handicap parking permit in the USA a persons medical condition must meet the legal definition of a disability.
To apply you will need to send in a application to the county tax offices.

In Canada

For someone to be eglible for a handicap parking permit their condition must be recognized by an Accessible Parking Permit program recognized health practitioner.
A application can be picked up at any Drivers and Vehicle Licence Issuing Offices.

In Australia

For someone to be eglible for a handicap parking permit they need to be a person whose speed of movement is severely restricted because of that impairment, and who is unable to use public transport because of a permanent physical impairment.

Handicap Accessible Vans

Thu, 01 May 2008 14:51:12 +0000

How much can you afford to spend on a handicap accessible van?
Do you want to buy a new or a used vehicle?
If you wont use it very often or only have a temporarily disability, have you thought about renting the van instead?
Do you already own a van that you want to convert into a handicap accessible van or do you want a new conversion van?
Have you thought about the pros and cons of a full size model vs a mini van?
Will the van be easily accessible from your wheelchair?
Does the van comply with the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) guidelines?
Does it come with a key chain that can remote activate the system thus making it more accessible?
Do you need a wheelchair ramp or a wheelchair lift?
Does it have a foldable handicap scooter ramp?
Do you want a wheelchair accessible van with a lowered floor?
Does the supplier ship to your location?
Will it provide a safe four way wheelchair tie down?
What kind of warranty does the dealer offer you?
How long will it take for the dealer to deliver the van to you?
Have you taken a look at the many brands of handicap accessible vans that are for sale, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, GMC (General Motors), Chevy, Toyota, VMI (Vantage Mobility), Braun (Braun Ability)?

Handicap Scooters

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 10:03:45 +0000

Do you need a electric handicap scooter or a electric wheelchair?
Does it need to be light and portable?
Should it have big thick wheels and a suspension for easy driving on rough surfaces?
Can you take it for a test drive before deciding to purchase?
What does the warranty cover?
How much maintenance will it need?
How long does the battery last and how long will it take to recharge?
How much will a replacement battery cost and can you replace it yourself without going to a mechanic?
Do you want a heavy duty handicap scooter or a lightweight easily transportable model?
Do you want a 3 wheel or a 4 wheel model?
How fast does it have to be able to go?
What type of transmission system do you prefer, gear, chain, belt etc.?
Does it have a cruise control feature?
Do you want a new or used / second hand handicap scooter?
Can the supplier offer you a discount?
Have you read the reviews about the one your are thinking about purchasing?
Which brand can offer the best combination of features for you, Merits, CTM, Shopride, Pride Mobility Scooters, DTP, Drive Medical, PaceSaver, Invacare, Golden Tech, Guardian, Zip’r Mobility etc.?

Manual Wheelchairs

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 10:00:58 +0000

Do you need a manual wheelchair or a electric model?
Are you looking for a authorized dealer or a wheelchair rental company?
Can you try it before deciding if the model suits your personal needs?
Is there any advantages over choosing a new vs a used / refurbished manual wheelchair and what is the difference in price?
What seat height, width and depth do you need for it to be comfortable for you?
What type of footrest do you need?
Have you asked the dealer about exactly what the warranty will cover?

Wheelchair Lifts

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 09:55:42 +0000

What type of handicap wheelchair lift do you need, electric, battery powered, hydraulic, vertical, residential, stair wheelchair lift, van-lift etc.?
How much will it cost and what kind of warranty will the dealer offer you?
If you buy a used one, will it still have a warranty from the manufacturer?

Transport Wheelchairs

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 09:52:06 +0000

Do you need a lightweight transport wheelchair or a heavier sturdy yet foldable model, or maybe even a transportable handicap scooter?
They come with many seat widths, what size of chair do you need?
Will you need a extra cushion for the seat?
Is the transport wheelchair easy to fold?
Are the wheels sturdy enough for the surface you tend to use it on?
Will you be able to try it before you decide to buy it?
Have you read the reviews or talked to anyone who already own the model you are thinking about?

Handicap Toilets

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 09:48:39 +0000

Is the handicap toilet ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant?
Is the raised toilet seat height adjustable to suit different peoples needs?
Do you need a raised seat or a handicap toilet seat with a frame?
Are the rails strong enough to be able to support a heavy person?
Have you double-checked the layout and dimensions?
Do you need a lift?
Will the dealer you buy it from deliver it for free?
What type of reconstruction will be needed and how long will it take to complete?

Handicap Toilet Seats

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 09:43:55 +0000

How high does the toilet seat need to be?
Would you prefer a adjustable model?
Does it come with a safety frame or armrests that allow you to safely lower yourself down and push yourself up?
Is it sturdy enough for your weight?
Do you want a static or a folding toilet seat?
Will it fit your current toilet without making any modifications to it?
Have you looked at the price of comparable models?

Handicap Showers

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 09:41:02 +0000

Do you need a handicap shower enclosure, a bathtub or both?
Is the model you have chosen easy to install or does it require a major renovation?
Does it have a adjustable slide bar making it easy to adapt to people of different height?
Does the shower head feature a pause button?
Will the shower enclosure dimensions be big enough to comply with the ADA act for showers and your personal needs?
Does it have foldable floor barrier thus making it easy to roll over with a wheelchair while keeping the water in the shower?
Are the grab bars sturdy enough for you?
Do you need a roll in or a walk in model?
Have you taken a look at many different handicap shower stall units to see witch offer the best features for your personal needs?

Reachers

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 09:26:37 +0000

Do you need a reacher with or without suction cups?
What length does it need to be?
How wide does it have to open?
Do you need one with a magnetic tip?
Is the handle grip friendly?
Does it need to be foldable and easy to take with you?
Can the trigger lock in place so you don’t need to keep pressure on it?

Handicap Ramps

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 09:19:50 +0000

Have you taken a look at the latest ADA guidelines regarding ramp width, slope, landings and handrails?
How wide does it have to be to allow easy access for your wheelchair or scooter?
Do you need a lightweight and portable handicap ramp?
What material do you want, aluminum (the most favored), steel or wood?
Does it have a slip resistant surface?
How much weight does it have to support?
How much does it cost and how much maintenance will it need?
Do you need to buy one or can you build it yourself?
Is there a ready made model that will suit your needs or do you need to get the ramp custom made?
What kind of warranty does the dealer offer and how much will the shipping cost (many dealers offer free shipping)?

Handicap Bathtubs

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 09:11:31 +0000

Do you need a walk in tub?
Will the model you have chosen be easily accessible by you or do you need a extra wide walk in tub?
Is it suitable for wheelchair access or would you prefer a handicap shower instead?
Can it be equipped with a seat?
Will you need a lift to access the bathtub?
Does the floor have a slip proof surface?
Are all components made of stainless steel?
Can it be easily installed in your bathroom without any remodeling?
Can you try it out in the store before deciding if the model will suit you?
Have you talked to someone who already own the model you are going to buy or have you read any reviews?
What kind of warranty will the dealer offer you?

Handicap Bathrooms

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 09:06:44 +0000

Have you taken a look at some of the many different handicap bathroom designs?
Do you need a walk in tub or a walk in shower?
Have you looked at different handicap toilet seats and grab bars?
Have you planned for grab bars around the toiled, in the shower stall and the bathtub?
Does it have enough room for a wheelchair?
Is the sink easily accessible?
Is the floor slip proof?
Are there any items which can be a hazard and needs to be removed?
How high should the toilet be?
How much will it cost to remodel your bathroom?
How long will the construction or renovation take?
Do you have a need for custom bathroom accessories, equipment or products?
Which supplier can offer the widest range of supplies?
Have you planned so that the dimensions will be in line with national guidelines and will suit your personal needs?
Have you made a list of the fixtures you need?
Do you know that the bathroom should have a zero-step entrance?

Electric Wheelchairs

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 08:59:42 +0000

Do you need a manual or a motorized wheelchair, or a electric handicap scooter?
What type of battery does it have?
How long does the battery last before it has to be charged?
Will medicare cover the cost of a electric wheelchair and how much will the insurance company pay?
What is your budget?
What style and feel would be best for your personal needs?
Do you need a joystick or a head controlled chair?
How fast does it have to be?
How much can it weigh and how big can it be to be easily maneuvered in your home or to take it with you when you travel?
Do you want quiet but higher maintenance belt driven wheelchair or a faster more noisy gear driven one?
Will it primarily be used indoors or outdoors on rougher surfaces and thus might need big thick wheels and a spring suspension?
Do you want rear wheel drive that is fast but has poor maneuverability, mid wheel drive that has good maneuverability but can lead to bumpy starting and stopping, or a front wheel drive that is easy to turn but with a lower top speed than the previous two.
Should the seat have to be able to tilt?
Do you need a electric wheelchair lift to access your home?
Have you read any reviews about the different models?
Which of the many brands offer the best combination of features for your needs, Invacare, Sunrise Medical, TiLite, ROHO, Quickie, Jazzy Power Wheelchairs, Pride Mobility, Drive Medical etc.?
How much does the shipping cost (many suppliers offer free shipping) and does the supplier offer any discounts on the product?