What gift can you give to someone with a disability? While grab bars and wheelchair bags make great stocking stuffers, if you want to give something more meaningful, give the gift of your time. For example, wash the car, or if a wheelchair accessible vehicle is in their future, take time to sit with them and do online research on minivans, full-size vans, cars, trucks, financing, rebates, etc.
Following are a few more suggestions, and you can create even more personalized tips.
- Do household chores: simple tasks like changing bed sheets and vacuuming are difficult if not painful for seniors and those with disabilities.
- Cook them their favorite meal.
- Take them shopping, to a sporting event or concert, gas up their car.
- Spiff up the van by washing and waxing it, doing routine maintenance; or taking it in for scheduled maintenance of the lift or ramp, hand controls, etc.
- Try a new sport—like adaptive skiing. There are programs and rental equipment for children and adults to accommodate those with disabilities, including amputations and partial paralysis. You can ski sitting down on a “sit ski,” or ski in the traditional standing position with modifications to the skis and poles. Most ski centers have many types of both standing and seated options, even three-track and four-track models, and a trained staff who can ski with you until you are familiar with the equipment.
- Don’t forget caregivers: Let them know you are thankful for them and appreciate all they do.
Did you know that Dec. 3 is the International Day of Persons with Disabilities? It’s another opportunity to do unexpected random acts of kindness.
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.