Living with a disability can make some activities more difficult than others and that can certainly be said for driving. However, getting from A to B with ease is imperative for the disabled and can play a major role in establishing independence. Here at Essential Mobility, we understand the importance of those living with disabilities to be as independent as possible and provide a diverse range of all-terrain mobility scooters to ensure just that, but for those embarking upon slightly longer journeys, car adaptions will enable you to drive with confidence. We’ve put together a list of just five fantastic car adaptions that are designed to deliver a seamless solution for those that need extra assistance when driving.
The issues of loneliness amongst the elderly and what a Channel 4 documentary is doing to help
One of the biggest issues facing the older generation in the 21st century is social isolation, particularly when they reside in a care home. Recent research suggests that over half of people over the age of 75 live alone, while two fifths of older people would say that the television is their main source of company.
Fundraiser raises money for Devon charity devoted to people with limited mobility
Plymouth city centre was the venue for a great fundraiser idea earlier this month, as several people on high spec mobility scooters cruised through the centre in an effort to raise funds and awareness for a local charity they rely on for support.
Seven people on their scooters started at the Access Plymouth base at Mayflower East car park, on 2nd September, at around midday before taking the ‘conga’ through Frankfort Gate and Drake Circus shopping centre.
The fundraiser’s objective was to raise awareness of the much needed support the charity provide for their local users, such as short-term hire of mobility scooters for shopping trips and sponsorship money.
The conga could unfortunately not rely on the weather but despite wet conditions Erica Travies, the Access Plymouth fundraising officer, was pleased with the outcome of the event and a similar ride is being planned for next year.
Commenting on the event, Travies said: “The ride promoted the charity and raised awareness of the needs of people who use mobility scooters.”
“It was a visual demonstration of the type of services we provide.”
The fundraising event was a demonstration of mobility scooter users and their needs which are unfortunately not being completely met in Plymouth city centre.
“Our people spend a lot of money in town and some shops are completely off-limits because of poor accessibility. That’s something we’ll be looking at.”
Plans for next year’s event are well under-way with Travies stating: “Perhaps next year we’ll look at sending everyone out on scooters with a shopping survey to see where they’ve been, what the access was like and any ideas for improvement so businesses realise how valuable we are.”
70-year-old Bruce Abbott, user of the charity, joined them on their fundraising ride. Bruce noted the importance of mobility scooters for people with limited mobility.
“People need to be aware that we have the same rights as them to get around the city and to do our shopping and I think this ride helped draw that to people’s attention, as well as trying to get the sponsorship.”
“When I came to Plymouth 17 years ago, I could walk around but I have been using this service since 2003. I’m at the stage now where I would be isolated without a scooter, whether that’s in town or while I’m at home.”
Mobility scooters are a lifeline for people with limited mobility in ensuring an independent and sociable life.
Image Credit: socialBedia, Flickr. Available under Creative Commons.
‘Wacky race’ brings pensioners together for a fun day out
‘Wacky races’, funded by the Arbroath COPD Group, brought together several pensioners for a fun day of races. The event in Scotland raised money for awareness of COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease). This is an event that can easily be organised in your local area with several mobility scooters for hire.
We have been a supplier of wheelchair mobility products for several years. Our extensive range will enables us to provide you with the right wheelchair for your needs, and our rental packages cover short and longer term rental at highly competitive rates.
We have a highly experienced team based in Barnstaple, North Devon who cover the whole of the South West and can advise on the best product for you. We even deliver to your location!
Call us today on 01271 859144 and speak to one of our advisers.
