Our abilities may change with age and time. Every day tasks like getting in/out of a vehicle or turning on a stove can be a challenge or exhausting, but there are certain devices, gadgets, and gizmos available that can help make life a little easier.
Handy and Helpful Tools
Listed below are some popular items that are on the market and have gained rave reviews. Check them out!
HandyBar – $25: Helps you get in and out of the car easier. It is simple to use and no installation is required; simply insert it into the U-shaped striker plate on your vehicle door frame. Handybar also has a lifetime guarantee. Store providers include places like: Amazon, Target, Walmart, Home Depot, and Express Medical Supply.
Car Caddie Door Strap – $12: A portable handle that offers balancing support for those with limited mobility getting in and out of a vehicle. Easily installed, adjustable strap length, and attaches to the frame of most vehicle doors, excluding convertibles.
Swivel Seat Cushion – $16 to $40: Rotates to allow user to swivel in and out of car seats. 15″ diameter. With 360 degrees this helpful device is available at the following stores: Home Depot, Amazon, Express Medical Supply, and Jet.com.
Easy Reach Seat Belt Handle – $10: Easily snaps onto your safety belt, it offers a flexible additional 6″ to grab on to, making it easier to pull your seat belt toward you.
Rigid Leg Lifter – $14: Used to raise or lower legs in wheelchairs, beds, or cars. Ideal for hip replacement patients, the rod bends easily to accommodate any foot and is available at Walgreens, eBay, and Shoplet.
Universal Turner – $25: Helps grasp and turn small knobs like gas caps and knobs around the home. Available on Amazon.com
Telestik Reacher – $30: Allows you to retrieve hard-to-reach items without requiring significant grip strength or dexterity. It features three tools that extend to 34” via stainless steel telescoping arms: a magnetic head, an adhesive pad, and a hook.
Here are some additional products that may come in handy. A quick Internet search will help you find the ones you’re interested in and learn more about what specific functions they offer. Depending on your individual needs, you could also search to find out what other similar devices are available to you. All prices are suggested retail and may vary.
The National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA) is an advocate for mobility and accessibility for drivers with disabilities. If you need help with converting or buying a handicap accessible car, truck or van, please consider one of our Quality Assurance Program mobility equipment dealers. Find a dealer near you: https://www.nmedacanada.ca/consumer-resources/dealer-locator/