From hand controls in my car to walkers and wheelchairs to get around, and the many useful tools I use at home, my life is full of adaptive devices and essentials to help me throughout the day.
For those who may be dealing with pain, fatigue, an injury, or simply want to make an everyday task simpler, here are some of my favorite adaptive items, and where and when I use them:
For Someone On-the-Go
- Phoenix Instinct Suitcase – I am absolutely obsessed with my suitcase from this company. I remember thinking, “There has to be some suitcase out there that is easier for people in wheelchairs.” A quick Google search later, here’s what I found. These bags attach to the back of your wheelchair, letting you pull it behind you while keeping your hands free to push your wheelchair. It is a complete game-changer, and the reason why I have been able to travel so much.
- A Reliable Backpack – It’s always with me for work and essentials on the road (laptop, books, notebooks, snacks, and more). It’s well-constructed, durable, and looks good in a Chevy bowtie.
- Protective Floor and Cargo Covers – My protective covers in my Chevy Equinox have been so nice to have! We all know and love that “clean car feeling,” and this helps you keep it longer. Especially for someone like me, who brings a wheelchair or other mobility aid into the car every day, this helps keep my car protected.
For Someone’s Mobility
- Sidestix forearm crutches – Forearm crutches can be an everyday item for someone with a disability. The Sidestix company customizes your crutches to your measurements. They are made to prevent pain or injury to your wrists and hands as you put your weight on them.
- Wheelchair Cup Holder – There are countless options out there for this. Personally, I like HandiCup. It is the simplest to use, and it works perfectly. A small tool like this makes a big difference for someone who uses a wheelchair.
- Gloves with Good Grip – Who doesn’t like a good pair of gloves, especially when you live in the North Country? If you pick a pair that is either all-leather or has grip on the bottom half, it becomes an adaptive pair as well. Pushing a wheelchair, or holding on to a walker or crutch in the cold, is a whole lot better with gloves to keep you warm and give you grip.
For Someone at Home
- Grabber – This tool is small, but incredibly handy. You can use it for anything, from reaching an upper cabinet to grabbing something on the floor. I use it the most when I am doing laundry. I use it to grab my clothes out of the dryer, rather than bending over and reaching in to get them. It makes my life feel a bit easier.
- Free Weight Set or Resistance Bands – Any set of weights is a gift to help someone stay active or recover lost strength, from the comfort of home. When I train, I use weights of 3, 5, and 8 pounds for different exercises, and I think this would be a perfect set for at-home workouts.
The right adaptive equipment can make all the difference in staying active, independent, and comfortable. These are just a few of the items that have made my life easier — and I hope they can do the same for you or someone you care about.