Arthritis

Arthritis

 

Rheumatic disease includes nearly 100 different conditions, which cause pain in the joints and connective tissue throughout the body. The key factor in the most serious forms of rheumatic disease is inflammation evidence by heat, swelling, redness, stiffness, and pain. Depending on the areas affected and functional ability, either a sedan or van may be an appropriate vehicle choice. Loss of joint mobility may result in diminished ability to reach, grasp, manipulate, and release objects. Strength, endurance, and range of motion difficulties may necessitate adaptive devices: such as extra mirrors, key holders, extended gear shift levers, power windows and door locks. More extensive adaptive equipment or vehicle modifications may be needed for persons whose ability to use their arms and legs is severely affected by the disease. The following are considerations for selecting a vehicle: Driving a sedan: When considering the use of a sedan, the individual must be able to do the following:

• Lock and Unlock the door
• Open and close the door
• Transfer to and from the wheelchair if applicable
• Store and retrieve the wheelchair (either independently or with a wheelchair loading device)

 

Since characteristics and dimensions of vehicles vary, it is important that the individual performs these functions in the vehicle being considered prior to purchase.

A driver rehabilitation specialist can provide recommendations for sedan selection.

  

Driving a van: If an individual is unable to drive a sedan, there are several options available for driving a van. Specialized modifications can allow a person to transfer to the driver seat or to drive from the wheelchair. There are several levels of driving control technology to compensate for the loss of strength and/or range of motion. Some of these include:

• Reduced effort steering systems to compensate for reduced strength
• Servo brake and accelerator control to compensate for reduced range of motion and strength. 
• Servo driving systems, allowing one hand operation of brake, accelerator and steering.

Adaptive equipment and vehicle modifications for wheelchair access are available for some full-size and mini vans; however, all vans are not suitable for modifications. We can assist in making the correct van choice as well as provide a comprehensive evaluation to determine a persons ability to drive. 508-697-6006


If you or those that drive with you notice any of the above warning signs and need a driving evaluation. Give us a call at 508-697-6006 and we can, help you with with knowledge about medical conditions, and help with a comprehensive evaluation and determine your ability to drive.

• Visual Perception
• Functional Ability
• Reaction Time
• Behind-the-wheel evaluation

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Our goal for the past 25+ years here at Automotive Innovations Bridgewater, MA, Massachusetts, is to provide our customers with access to the best sales, service and repair for all the leading wheelchair accessible mobility vehicles, hand controls and devices that can offer you greater freedom and independence. We are your New England adaptive mobility equipment dealer and offer a full line of VMI wheelchair accessible vans, or Vantage Mobility International products, and we have a team of Certified Mobility Consultants who are always ready to help you learn about the benefits and features of full sized handicap vans, new and used wheelchair vehicles, Ricon lifts, adaptive mobility equipment, and more.

Automotive Innovations  

1000 Main St  Bridgewater, MA   

508-697-6006