Tag: wheelchair

The NHS Wheelchair Service.

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The provision of wheelchairs by the NHS can be incredibly beneficial. If you believe that you are entitled to an NHS wheelchair and would benefit from one, we encourage you to contact your local wheelchair services. It’s important to note that each area has its own set of criteria, so it’s essential to find out what the criteria are for your specific location. By doing so, you can ensure that you receive the appropriate assistance and support.

Once you are accepted as being entitled to a wheelchair, the next decision will be as to what type of wheelchair they are willing to provide. Remember, this is based on actual needs, not on what you would personally like. If you can justify why you need a specific chair, or extra functions above the basic then you may or may not be given that chair. The NHS wheelchair services have a limited budget which they have to spend carefully in order that they may enable as many people as possible to be mobile.

Photo by Ivan Samkov on Pexels.com

If you are able to self-propel, or are unable to operate a powerchair you will almost certainly be provided with a manual wheelchair to push yourself about, or for another person to push you in. This doesn’t mean you can’t get a supportive seat/cushion though so make sure they are suitable for your needs. In some specific circumstances you may be provided with a powerchair that has a control for someone else to drive the chair for you.

Someone who is unable to push themselves in a manual chair will usually be provided with a powered wheelchair, unless this would be considered dangerous, or their home is unsuitable. NHS wheelchairs are generally designed to be indoor chairs, so yes you may go shopping, school, college, etc… whilst using them, but don’t expect them to be able to be used on rougher terrain.

Further information can be found below:

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/social-care-and-support-guide/care-services-equipment-and-care-homes/walking-aids-wheelchairs-and-mobility-scooters/

https://focusondisability.co.uk/disability-aids-and-equipment-resources/nhs-wheelchair-service-a-guide/

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Do your knees beep?

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Have you ever noticed the sounds your wheelchair makes? It’s almost as if your knees are beeping! As a wheelchair user, you quickly become aware that every button you press or movement you make emits some sort of noise. Whether you’re tilting your seat or adjusting it to a more comfortable position, the whole room is sure to know about it.

You cannot change your position quietly, nor can you drive your chair about silently either. If you use a powerchair, you can’t go anywhere privately unless entirely alone. No sneaking to the kitchen for a late night snack, nor surprising someone you haven’t seen for ages by suddenly appearing in the doorway, nor ‘walking’ through a restaurant without anyone noticing you heading for the loo. All these simple things can be taken for granted by most people.

While these sounds are great for safety purposes, they can be a bit of a nuisance in certain situations. Imagine being in an important meeting or attending a funeral and feeling like you can’t adjust your position without causing a distraction. It’s not ideal, and it’s something that should be addressed at the point of sale.

Photo by Kampus Production on Pexels.com

As a consumer in this industry, I believe that wheelchair manufacturers should make it an automatic option to have a noiseless wheelchair. This would allow users to move around freely without worrying about interrupting important events or causing a disturbance. It’s a small change that could make a big difference in the lives of wheelchair users.

It’s important to note that this issue isn’t just about convenience. It’s about accessibility and inclusion. Wheelchair users should be able to participate in all aspects of life without feeling like they’re a burden or causing a disturbance. A noiseless wheelchair would be a step towards creating a more inclusive society.

In conclusion, the sounds that wheelchairs make can be a hindrance in certain situations. It’s time for wheelchair manufacturers to make a change and offer noiseless options for their customers. This small change could have a big impact on the lives of wheelchair users and help create a more inclusive society.

So, do your knees beep each time you move?

Poem: Broken Wheelchair.

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My wheelchair is broken, it’s out of commission
I can’t get around, and it’s causing frustration
I need it to move, to get from point A to B
But now I’m stuck, and it’s just not easy

I can’t roll down the hall, or explore the outdoors
My mobility’s limited, and it’s really a bore
I’m missing out on so much, it’s really not fair
My broken wheelchair is causing me despair

I called up the repairman, but he’s booked for days
So in the meantime, I’m stuck in a daze
But I won’t give up, I’ll stay strong and persist
I’ll find a solution, I won’t be dismissed

Poem: Wheeling along

So here’s to my broken wheelchair, to this little setback
I’ll rise above it, I won’t be held back
I’ll keep pushing forward, through thick and thin
My mobility won’t be stopped, I’ll always win.

wheelchair all alone in big room.
Photo by Patrick De Boeck on Pexels.com

Technology v Attitudes.

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The advancements in technology have undoubtedly improved the lives of people with disabilities in countless ways. However, despite these improvements, the physical world remains largely inaccessible to many individuals with disabilities. This is often due to the actions of people rather than nature itself. While we have created incredible forms of transportation with a wealth of knowledge and skill, most are not wheelchair accessible. Although trains can be made accessible, we still rely on the goodwill of others to deploy ramps and leave wheelchair spaces free for those who need them. Additionally, cafes and restaurants often fail to provide enough space for individuals with visual or mobility issues to manoeuvre around comfortably. Stores continue to use lights that flicker, causing discomfort for those with sensory conditions such as autism. These are just a few examples of the many challenges that individuals with disabilities face on a daily basis.

Astronaut with the planet earth behind them.
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

It is clear that attitudes need to catch up with the significant technological advancements we have made. Only then will we be able to create a truly inclusive world for all. By recognising and addressing the barriers that exist in the physical world, we can work towards creating a more accessible and accommodating environment for everyone. It is our responsibility to ensure that individuals with disabilities are not left behind in the wake of technological progress. By doing so, we can create a world that is truly inclusive and welcoming to all.

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The Erosion of Pedestrian Space: The Impacts of Pavement Parking.

Breaking Barriers: How Advanced Technology is Changing the Lives of Individuals with Disabilities

New technology is revolutionising the lives of people with disabilities by providing them with innovative solutions to overcome their challenges. From wheelchairs to housing and speech devices, these advancements are making a significant impact on the quality of life for those with disabilities.

Height adjustable worktops in kitchen.
Photo by MART PRODUCTION on Pexels.com

One of the most significant advancements is in the field of mobility. Wheelchairs have come a long way from their early designs, and now feature advanced features such as power-assisted wheels, lightweight materials, and customizable seating options. These advancements have made it easier for people with disabilities to move around independently and participate in everyday activities.

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Another area where technology is making a difference is in housing. Smart homes are becoming increasingly popular, and they offer a range of features that can be customized to meet the needs of people with disabilities. These features include voice-activated controls, automated lighting, and temperature control, and even smart appliances that can be controlled remotely.

Speech devices are also improving the lives of people with disabilities. These devices use advanced technology to help people with speech impairments communicate more effectively. They can be customized to meet the specific needs of each individual, and can even be programmed to recognize and respond to specific voice commands.

In conclusion, new technology is transforming the lives of people with disabilities by providing them with innovative solutions to overcome their challenges. These advancements are making it easier for people with disabilities to live independently, participate in everyday activities, and communicate more effectively. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more exciting developments in this field.

A smooth ride: How to keep your powerchair in top condition

Are you ready to experience the ultimate smooth ride on your powerchair? Keeping it in top condition is key, and I am excited to share some simple tips with you on how to achieve just that.

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First off, make sure to check the battery regularly and charge it after each use. This will ensure that your powerchair is always ready for your next adventure. Additionally, inspect the tires frequently for wear and tear, and keep them properly inflated. This will not only prevent tire damage but also provide a more comfortable ride.

Don’t forget about routine maintenance, such as cleaning dust and debris from the motors and adjusting brakes as needed. With these simple steps, you can enjoy a smooth ride each time you step onto your powerchair, knowing that it’s in top condition.

Two wheelchair users enjoying a social drink, while also playing a game of connect 4 using a garden sized set.
Photo by ELEVATE on Pexels.com

Facing the Unexpected.

Wow, today did not go as planned! Let me tell you what happened…

I went out in my powerchair like I usually do, and the weather was pretty good for this time of year. I was cruising along, enjoying my day, when suddenly I heard a teenager say, “Your chair is smoking!” I thought he was joking, but he insisted that one of the motors was smoking.

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After a short conversation, the motor stopped smoking, but it was still really warm. I decided to switch to a different chair when I got back, and let the other one cool down. Later, we tested it again and found that the motor on one side was still warmer than the other, but there was no smoke this time.

Looks like I’ll have to call the repair company tomorrow. Being a wheelchair user is never boring!

Smoke trail in blue. Photo by Tetyana Kovyrina on Pexels.com

Dear businesses,

If you own a business be absolutely fantastic if you could give accurate and up-to-date information detailing your accessibility.

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At the moment if someone wants to know detailed access information, quite often it means that they need to to phone or email the company direct to find out further information as only the basics, if that, are put on websites.

Putting a wheelchair symbol on your website purely suggests that you believe that someone who uses a wheelchair can access your services.

What I want to know is whather you have a disabled loo, disabled parking spaces, do you have a lowered desk inside?

Are you all on one level, and if not do you have a lift? If you don’t have a lift do you have a second floor, I want to know what services I can on access and what I can’t. Do you provide an alternative method of access?

If you are a cafe or restaurant do you have tables of different heights that’s allowing people to choose whichever it is more comfortable for them?

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels.com

Hotels is no good just to say you have an accessible room. We need to know more information how much space is there to get around the room, does accessible bathroom have a shower or Bath? Do you provide a hoist? How do I access the room does it use a key card or a swipe card? How high is the bed?

All these things may seem silly to you, but it ensures but we get a room suitable for us and you don’t get lots of hassle because we complain.

You might not be 100% accessible, just be honest we would rather know! You might be accessible for someone who has mobility issues, but it’s not for a wheelchair user. So put that on your website.

This is just a few ideas but you get the gist.

Norwich, Disabled Citizens Inquiry.

I thought you might like to see a bit more of what the Disabled Citizens Inquiry is all about, and how information was gathered.

Here’s a video from the Norwich workshop.

Youtube video calling for change, people talking about walking and wheeling.

P.A. Benefits!!

I am in the process of getting a PA (Personal Assistant) via Direct Payments for the first time, and this means……

I should gain time, energy, and freedom. It will also enable me to have a more varied and flexible social life.

Quite a few of my friends and family don’t live locally, nor are their homes wheelchair accessible, so the logistics of seeing them, let alone staying overnight somewhere are pretty complicated – virtually impossible.

Having a P.A. will hopefully mean this is something that can be overcome as I’d be able to travel by car and not via public transport, immediately reducing travel times. This means for some the visit could be done in a day – a few hours travel each way would be well worth it.

I’ll be able to attend events that aren’t on public transport routes, or at school times where taxis are impossible to get.

Getting bits done indoors will be achieved much more quickly as I can ask for help straightaway, and not have lots of half finished tasks whilst waiting for help with a part of a task. Leading to less frustration.

Simple things like sweeping up the rubbish pile will no longer be a problem, or filling the printer, or putting on goodness knows how many layers of outdoor clothes to walk the dog. Grabbing stuff out of the top of the fridge will be easy, and not impossible.

When you’re a wheelchair user, you learn patience pretty quickly, as well as how to think outside of the box.