Mobility vehicles and wheelchair accessible minivans can provide so much more additional freedom to those living with a disability. Like any new routine or activity, however, there is often a time period of discomfort and adjustment.
To new wheelchair users or those who have been in a wheelchair but are purchasing their first mobility vehicle, there can be challenges associated with your new vehicle. Consulting with a certified driver rehabilitation specialist (CDRS) or your trusted mobility van dealer can help you ease into your new vehicle and start enjoying the many benefits a handicap van has to offer.
Entering & Exiting Your Mobility Van
Excited about your new wheelchair minivan? You should be! Get started by familiarizing yourself with entering and exiting your mobility van comfortably.
If you plan on driving your vehicle without a caregiver, some vans will have the option of a conversion ramp allowing you to enter into the driver’s seat conveniently.
If your mobility van doesn’t have the transfer seat option, use the following steps to safely enter the driver’s seat:
1.Angle your wheelchair as close to the vehicle as possible for the best range of motion.
2.Slide into your seat using your upper body strength.
3.Once you’re safely in your mobility van, slide the seat so you can collapse your wheelchair before placing it in the seat behind you or the passenger’s side.
Have Reliable Maintenance Resources Handy
Purchasing your mobility van is possibly one of the largest investments you’re going to be making. Wheelchair vans aren’t cheap. They also require maintenance and upkeep. Make sure to know a trusted mechanic who knows about mobility equipment in the local vicinity.
Consider Hiring a Caregiver
Depending on your specific level of mobility and the extent of your upper body strength, you may or may not be able to lift yourself into a wheelchair van. Caregivers, either family members or trained professionals, can be extremely useful to those living with a handicap.
Aside from the many other things a caregiver can provide assistance with, they are also extremely useful when it comes to entering and exiting your mobility van.
Looking for a new or used wheelchair van? Classic Vans offers a huge selection of full-sized and minivan handicap accessible vehicles. For almost thirty years, we have been providing the San Francisco Bay Area with quality van conversions.
Browse our mobility van inventory or call (866)-370-8222. Don’t live locally? Ask about our low-cost, nationwide van delivery.