Regaining your independence after a stroke is a vital step to getting back into the lifestyle and routine you previously enjoyed. If a stroke has caused you, or a loved one, loss of mobility, finding your freedom might involve the use of adaptive devices and accessible transportation options. Because stroke recovery is different for everyone, it’s important to note that every person’s path to mobility varies.
Tips before Driving
Following a stroke, there are a number of steps you must take before you get behind the wheel again to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road. The American Stroke Association lists a few tips on their website that will help you determine whether you are ready to get back on the road.
The key step in determining whether you should drive again is consulting with your doctor or occupational therapist. Your doctor will be able to know, understand and teach you a lot about your stroke, as well as offer professional advice that is based on experience yet tailored to your personal situation.
From a legal point of view, you may want to contact your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles and ask for the Office of Driver Safety. There may be requirements that apply to people who have suffered a stroke and are driving again.
Certified driver rehabilitation specialists can help evaluate your motor skills, depth perception, reaction time and driving ability.
A Mobility Solution Right for You
After you have taken the proper steps to guarantee you will be safe when getting on the road again, it may be necessary to find a wheelchair accessible vehicle if you use a wheelchair to help with mobility after your stroke. Your local NMEDA dealer can assist you with all the steps that are essential to finding mobility equipment that fits your needs. With custom features installed in vehicle to ensure maximum comfort and safety, NMEDA can put you on the path to independence after you have had a stroke or any kind of mobility-impairing life event.
Support after a Stroke
The American Stroke Association offers helpful tips, as well as resources to locate a support group in your area not only to manage life after stroke, but to flourish as well! If your loved one has had a stroke, there are also information, resources and support that they provide for caregivers. Along with these resources, the ASA also provides many other helpful things such as research, opportunity for donation to research, inspirational stories and easy ways that you can support the ASA in your local community.
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 mobility equipment dealers.