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Independent Living Industry News
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A really interesting new page of hoists and other handling equipment from Ergolet includes innovative solutions such as the Stella stand aid, shown here, which has a number of features that make it an effective transfer aid for use with a person who can participate to some degree in the procedure. The foot and knee supports can be detached, so that the Stella can also be employed as a walker by semi-ambulatory users. September 2010 Click for this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our patient handling section
The new Sumo range of bariatric rise and recliners are manufactured in South Wales by Wilcare, and are designed to meet the needs of the heaviest users, up to 50 stone (318 kg). The chairs have three motors, each controlling a separate function; one for the back, one for the rise and the third motor for the footboard. The footboard can support a weight of 25 stone (159 kg). August 2010 Click for this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our Bariatric section
Ascot Hygiene has a new range of electronic bidet toilet seats which adapt a standard toilet to provide warm water washing and warm air drying. The washing nozzle is adjustable in position, and all functions can be adjusted by the user - water temperature and pressure, drying air temperature, even the warmth of the seat! Child settings make it safe and comfortable for younger users. August 2010 Click for this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our assisted toileting section
Challenged to prove that their beds could accommodate bariatric patients weighing up to 40 stone, Tough Furniture went further, encouraging 10 of their staff to jump simultaneously on a Tough Plus bed. Designed to withstand challenging behaviour, such as repeated bouncing that destroys most normal beds, the Tough Plus withstood a combined weight of 130 stone (more than 825 kg). August 2010 Click for this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our bariatric section
Gowrings Mobility has a new conversion that addresses the challenges of accommodating the larger power chairs which are increasingly popular. The Vauxhall Vivaro is a roomy, comfortable vehicle which can carry an additional six passengers and the driver, as well as the wheelchair user, making it a great choice for larger families and community transport providers. With gently ramped rear access, Gowrings' conversion offers a choice of three positions for the wheelchair, increasing its versatility. August 2010 Click for this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our motoring section
The Angelus solution to supporting disabled, elderly and vulnerable individuals to live independently is simple and low tech. A friendly daily chat on the telephone is proving an essential lifeline for more and more service users, and the organisation has just won a major national award for its concept. Here, Hunter Schmertzing from Angelus is shown with the Business Achievement Award for Golden Services within the Healthcare Industry, presented by David Westgarth, an editor from the Telegraph group of papers, with local MP Laura Sandys. August 2010 Click for this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our telecare section
Available from Forcetenco, BookSense DS is a neat new portable digital audio book player with a screen, which allows you to access information for education, business, and entertainment. Very easy to use and weighing only 113grms, BookSense DS is both portable and powerful fitting easily into a shirt pocket, backpack, or handbag, so you can take it anywhere. It will play audio files, DAISY content, and read documents, and has a Secured-Digital (SD) memory card slot and built-in digital recorder as standard. August 2010 Click for this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our low vision aids section
It's so important to have regular eye tests, to pick up any problems such as cataracts, glaucoma
or age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and to make sure that the spectacles you wear are right for you. The good news is that you
don't have to go to the optometrist, they can come to you. The Outside Clinic brings a full range of equipment to your home, for testing
your eyes, fitting spectacles, providing low vision aids. August 2010 Click for this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our eyecare section
Benmor Medical, the bariatric specialists, are making it easier to care for the heaviest patients (up to 65 stone, 414 kg) with their new Aurum bed, which expands width-wise from 36" (920mm) to 48" (1220mm). This means that it can be moved around more easily, through standard hospital doorways for example, and then made wide enough for bariatric patients when required. It offers four-part profiling and removable/adjustable safety rails. July 2010 Click for this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our bariatric section
PivoTell has the answer for anyone who could really do with some telecare support, but shies away from the idea of wearing an emergency call pendant. The Minifone is a watch phone that not only makes emergency calls either to friends/family or an Alarm Response Centre, but also receives incoming calls, so you don't have to make a dash for the phone when it rings. It even tells the time! July 2010 Click for this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our Telecare section
The new upfront conversion of the Fiat Doblo is now available from Wav Evolution. Ten thousand pounds less than their
original Kia Sedona model, which shook up the conversion market by providing side access which retained all the boot space, with upfront travel
for the wheelchair user, whether driving or as a passenger, the Doblo costs £19,995.00 converted. Motability accredited, this vehicle is already
proving really popular, and represents a big step towards the goal of providing front access cars at the same price and affordability as any traditional WAV. July 2010 Click for this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our motoring section
Sir Stirling Moss travelled in style round the Mobility Roadshow, while resting his injured ankles, on the TGA Supersport. Here he is trying out the company's new Vita three wheeler, with some help from "Marilyn Monroe", performance artist Suzie Kennedy. With a top speed of 8 mph, all-round suspension and a distinctive orange livery, the Vita 3 is a comfortable road-going scooter for riders weighing up to 25 stone. July 2010 Click for our mobility section
Angelus is recruiting new operators for their telephone-based telecare service, nationwide. Anyone who is caring and able to commit to at least 2 to 3 hours a day talking in a friendly and relaxed way with clients of the service is welcome to apply. The company will give training to successful applicants, and take up three references and a CRB check. Most important qualities are reliability (clients are depending on their regular daily call) and an empathetic, relaxed manner. Find out more on the Angelus storyboard page July 2010
Squirrel Medical has an innovative new pressure care mattress, the Diamond
Independence, a dynamic airflow mattress which is only 12.5 cm deep, so can be safely used even with standard height bed rails. It offers a stable surface for transferring to a wheelchair or walking frame, while providing excellent relief from pressure, friction and shear. June 2010 Click for this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our pressure care section
Meet "Iron Kid" Laws! Two-year old Ewan, who has cerebral palsy, is one half of triathlon team "Team Laws" - the other
is his father Ben. Together they hope to raise funds for MERU, a unique charity which custom-makes equipment for disabled youngsters. Throughout
the 13.1 mile run and 56 mile cycle ride, Ben will tow and push Ewan in a trailer that has been specially adapted by MERU. For the 1.2 mile
swim section Ben will be towing Ewan in an adapted kayak. The Triathlon - known as The Cowman - takes place on Sunday 4th July 2010 in
Emberton Country Park near Milton Keynes. June 2010
End of life issues are hugely topical; yet again, the news is full of stories of patients being hastened to their end by a doctor who
claims to have been motivated by a wish not to prolong suffering. Good palliative care or an inalienable right to assisted suicide? Prolonging of life by whatever means or leaving it to medics to make our choices for us? Wherever you stand on the debate, you should find "End of Life – The Essential Guide to Caring" by Mary Jordan and Judy Carole Kauffmann, an informative read. We review it here June 2010
Futuristic design combined with a range of features to meet the varying needs of disabled children, Otto Bock's Kimba buggy has it all, with a revolutionary spring frame suspension for a smooth ride. The new Kimba comes in pink, as shown here, and turquoise, both with a high spec aluminium tubing frame for lightness and strength. The buggy can be folded for easy storage and transportation. June 2010 Click for this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our Disabled children's section
Carers looking for support/respite will be interested to know that Angelus are offering new
clients the first five days of their unique telephone support service free of charge as a trial/taster period. Research for Carers Week has shown that most carers want occasional breaks from their full-time responsibilities and support in times of crisis. June 2010 Click for this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our section on carers' resources
It's Carers Week, and our latest newsletter has just gone up online with a carer-related theme. You can read about how to help some of the most disadvantaged carers to stay in touch by donating old laptops, as well as the latest about wheelchair-friendly vehicles, managing the postural needs of people with multiple disabilities, and much more. June 2010 • Click here to read the newsletter online
Postural Management – Independent Living has a brand-new area dedicated to information and products to assist with postural management for individuals with multiple disabilities and/or complex needs. By day and by night, a range of options are available to manage posture and help prevent musculoskeletal deterioration. June 2010 • Click for our postural management section
Jolly Good Idea's clever telephone voice dialler works just as well in the South Atlantic as here in Britain! The Falklands Islands Government has bought one to help a quadriplegic resident stay in touch independently. For anyone who can't key in a number (or remember them), the voice dialler is a simple, robust solution. June 2010 Click for this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our vision and hearing section
Constables Mobility has a brand-new wheelchair accessible conversion of the Nissan NV200, a really flexible choice for families, offering seating options for up to six people, including a wheelchair user and driver. With low fuel consumption and low CO2 emissions, the NV200 is the most environmentally friendly vehicle in its class. The conversion ensures that maximum storage space for luggage is maintained, and the wheelchair user as well as all other passengers and driver can enjoy excellent visibility. June 2010 Click for this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our motoring section
For the most up-to-date features in medication management, the Pivotell Plus is the latest development of the Pivotell, and includes a facility to send text and email notification to carers if medication is not taken on time and when the doses remaining in the tray are down to four. For anyone with a complex medication regime, and/or mental confusion or poor memory, the Pivotell enables pills to be managed reliably, so that independence can be maintained as long as possible. May 2010 Click for this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our telecare section
Blowing our own trumpets here - IndependentLiving has been shortlisted for the national eWell-Being Awards, run by the UK Centre for Economic and Environmental Development, UK CEED, which was set up to support, co-ordinate and monitor implementation of the Conservation and Development Programme for the UK, and has become a widely respected expert in sustainability. Final results are next month - so fingers crossed! May 2010
Electric Mobility Euro has a clever solution combining ease for the carer with comfort for the chair user: WeGo is a comfortable chair that sits on a powered base, enabling the carer to steer and push without effort. It is designed particularly for individuals who are not able to control power chair themselves, and it is easily dismantled into manageable parts for transporting in the boot of the car. May 2010 Click for this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our power chair section
Uniscan, the walking aid manufacturer, has scooped the prize for Environmental Awareness in the Essex business awards. More than 300 companies entered in the various categories; the highest number in the history of the awards. Proving that you don't have to be a big company to go green, Uniscan impressed the judges with a combination of recycling, energy saving and zero land-fill, together with a commitment to using local suppliers that reduces delivery mileage and emissions. May 2010 Click for this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our walking aids section
The only front-access conversion of the new Fiat Doblo is on its way, from Wav-Evolution. Retaining the boot space and allowing the wheelchair user to travel upfront, with four other seats as standard, the new Doblo brings the same key benefits as the first-generation Wav-Evolution, which is based on the Kia Sedona, at an affordable price of £19,995 for the base model May 2010 Click for this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our wheelchair motoring section
Telecare is supporting more and more people to continue living independently in their own homes. Anyone who is concerned that it sounds rather remote and impersonal should take a look at an innovative new service from Angelus, which involves making a friendly daily phone call to have a chat, in the course of which any concerns can be identified and reported back to the person commissioning the service May 2010 Click for this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our section on telecare
Win Health has a new movie in the Demo Gallery, demonstrating products to assist with the care of most vulnerable patients. FallSmart mats help minimise the impact of falls out of bed, when somebody either deliberately climbs over the rails, or accidentally falls or rolls out. The bright colours prevent carers tripping over them when they are in position on the floor by the bed. DermaSavers, designed to protect fragile skin from damage due to friction or pressure, and help heal existing skin tears, are also featured. April 2010 Click for this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our section on fall prevention
Astor Bannerman has a new addition to their assisted bathing range. The Rio height adjustable bath is extremely quiet and completely stable in any position. There is an extra large open area under the bath, to allow the use of all types of floor-standing hoists, and an anti-trap system is built-in as standard. The bath width is a generous 745 mm, and like all baths in the range, the Rio will comfortably accommodate all types of cushioning and support. April 2010 Click for this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our section on assisted bathing
Mangar's clever new BackSaver has won New Product of the Year at Naidex. Designed
to help with getting a wheelchair into the boot of a car, you simply unroll it,
place the wheelchair on the top and walk it into the boot using the hand holds. Among the advantages of the BackSaver, it reduces the weight required to lift the wheelchair by around 30%;
it is quick and simple to fit and use, and fits in the majority of hatchbacks. April 2010 Click to read more about Mangar's BackSaver • Click for our section on motoring
MemRabel™ is a brand-new product from Easylink, a simple-to-use timepiece which also incorporates many other features particularly helpful for people with dementia. As well as time, with "Sun" and "Moon" icons to help differentiate day from night, the MemRabel also clearly shows the date and day of the week, and integrates a simple memo recorder, so that the user can be reminded of regular tasks such as locking doors at night or taking medication, or one-off events such as a doctor's appointment. Another feature is an emergency alert option, which would notify a carer if the person might be in need of assistance. MemRabel was designed with input from telecare professionals and dementia specialists. April 2010 Click to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our section on Telecare
A really interesting new product for you to take a look at: the SuperKettle is a good way to make sure that you have piping hot water whenever you need it - for a cup of tea or to fill a hottie, perhaps - without ever having to lift or pour a kettle. Or wait for it to boil! The unit heats water and maintains the temperature till you want it, and you just press a button on the top to pour. April 2010 Click to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our kitchen gadgets section
AKW Medicare has developed the 'Level Best' wet floor shower system, which incorporates the popular Tuff Form® former, to give customers
a straightforward and cost effective process for choosing, purchasing and installing a shower system for a domestic wet room. With five easy
guidance steps a wet room can be designed to suit many individual preferences. Tuff Form is available in nine sizes and is suitable for both
wooden and concrete floor installations. Stylish and versatile shower screens provide an attractive and easy to fit finish to the wet
room, and an extensive range of accessories are available to provide unrivalled comfort, including under-floor heating, seats and
stainless steel grab rails. April 2010 Click to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our showers section
Changing Places Changing Lives is the campaign to ensure the provision of fully accessible toilets in public places, so that people with disabilities who need the help of a carer can expect to be able to use public facilities just like everybody else. Total Hygiene, manufacturer of the Closomat automatic wash and dry toilet, has been selected by the campaign consortium as their commercial partner, to help raise awareness of the problem. To date, successes achieved include some 116 Changing Places facilities installed across the UK, and the consortium is now lobbying for Part M of the Building Regulations to include Changing Places toilets, with a height-adjustable changing bench, a hoist and enough space for up to two carers, in all large public places. April 2010 Click to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our assisted toileting section
Driving or travelling up front in your wheelchair has become much more affordable this month. Sirus Automotive's Fiat Qubo 'Switch' is now available through the Motability Contract Hire scheme with an Advance Payment of just £3695 (£2266 War Pensioners Mobility Supplement), the lowest advance payment ever on a vehicle of this kind. You can be driving from as little as £1.26 a day! The Switch has quick release front seats, enabling either or both driver and passenger places to be occupied by a wheelchair user, with easy access from the rear of the car, via an automated tailgate and ramp. April 2010 Click to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our motoring section
MediTek Stairlifts, now the single largest employer in the town of Fishburn, County Durham, has been acknowledged for outstanding achievement in manufacturing excellence and export success at the recent North East Business Awards 2010. The Export Award was sponsored by UK Trade and Investment, and the judges were particularly impressed with the level of export growth, in relation to turnover, in recent years and that the company succeeded without the benefit of government grants or export credits and against competitors with far larger marketing budgets. April 2010 Click to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our stairlifts section
Bakare Beds, well-established supplier of profiling beds, care cots and mattresses, has become a member of BHTA, whose OFT (Office of Fair Trading)-approved code of practice is a convenient
way for customers to identify that they operate to a high standard of care and eschew sharp practices, such as high-pressure selling. The company's ranges of Prestige beds and Klearside cots have also recently been updated, with completely redesigned undercarriages. April 2010 Click to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our care beds section
Pressalit Care has extended its range of height adjustable nursing benches with the new Nursing Bench 150, designed for installations such as Changing Places facilities, school hygiene rooms and home adaptations.For use in situations where a person needs to be changed or showered while lying down, the Nursing Bench 150 comprises a comfortable PVC-coated canvas stretcher which is easily height adjusted from 500mm to 900mm with the hand-held remote control.
This allows it to be lowered to a suitable height for side transfer from a wheelchair, and then raised to a comfortable and safe working height for the carer. March 2010 Click to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our assisted showering section
Camelot Furniture has a new fabric option for their range of rise and recliners. Ultraleather Brisa is a luxurious simulated leather,
the first polyurethane surface with a unique ventilation system that allows the fabric to breathe. It is exclusively formulated
to provide air flow and resist temperature fluctuations, keeping you cool and comfortable no matter how long you use the chair. The
fabric is soft, waterproof, breathable, scratch resistant and extremely durable. March 2010
Click to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our easychairs section
Eurocare has brought accessible bathing a tiny (45mm) step nearer, with the new Adagio Ancora, the walk-in bath with the lowest threshold currently available. MD Mike Holborn says Eurocare has redeveloped its best-selling Adagio bath to make bathing possible for as many as possible: "A lot of people still prefer to bathe instead of shower, and level access bathing is the ‘holy grail’ of our industry. And whilst it may not be entirely possible to achieve total level access with a walk in bath, this bath brings us a step closer and will make bathing accessible to a lot more people who would otherwise have to choose a shower." March 2010 Click to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our bathroom section
Coventry has a new Assessment Centre, where occupational therapists can advise visitors on suitable products to assist with their mobility and daily living needs. Two areas where it is really helpful to have equipment set up with professional advice on hand are the bathroom and kitchen, and specialist suppliers AKW Medicare have provided showering products and a working kitchen, to make recommendations much more straightforward. March 2010 Click to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our section on accessible kitchens
Latest movies in our Demo Gallery include the nifty WheelLink, a cleverly designed accessory that enables you to carry your manual wheelchair or walker with you when you go out on a mobility scooter, so that you have it to hand when venturing into confined spaces such as shops or cafes, which may not be accessible with the scooter. March 2010 Click to view this movie
New site subscriber, Quingo Scooters, has a fresh take on the mobility scooter, with a range of five wheeled vehicles that combine the stability of a four wheeler with the easy manoeuvring and comfortable seating position of a three wheeler. The range includes lightweight scooters for short urban journeys through to long-range, high-powered machines for cross-country outings on rougher terrain. February 2010 Click to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our section on mobility scooters
Benmor Medical, bariatric specialists, have upgraded their Maxus riser/recliner chair with a range of new features, while still incorporating all the elements that made the former model so popular. The Maxus now has transportation handles, heavy-duty vinyl covering for the outer sides of the chair to cope with the stresses of hospital use, and pressure-relieving vinyl for the seat cushion, which works in conjunction with the new pressure-relieving "Vita-gel" to give maximum relief for the bariatric patient. February 2010
A clever device, available from Easylink UK, converts any normal landline phone into a photo phone. Ideal for elderly and confused users, those with cognitive impairments or dexterity problems, you simply plug the unit into the wall socket, and the phone into the unit - you can then dial a number by simply touching the appropriate picture. Currently available at a special offer price of £19.95 plus post and packing. February 2010 Click to visit this subscriber's storyboard page
Kingkraft has a new product, the STAID; a lifting device designed for people who find it difficult to stand up on their own from
a sitting position, but can still cooperate actively in the process of standing up. The STAID can be used for moving (with transfers)
between the edge of a bed, wheelchair, shower chair and toilet. It is compatible with the Guldmann Ceiling track hoist. The one-piece
product consists of a floor mounted wheeled foot platform and rigid mast with knee supports and articulated upper body lifting support
with sling. February 2010 Click to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our Moving & Handling people feature
Joerns Healthcare have a new addition to their Oxford Professional range of hoists. The Elevate, which has its first outing at Moving & Handling People later this week, is a compact and sturdy lifter which can be used with either a standing or a transport sling. It incorporates a digital weigh scale, and can be used to transfer people weighing up to 31 stone. January 2010 Click to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our Moving & Handling people feature
Freelift, the stairlift specialists, have launched a new website designed particularly for end users. It aims to be informative,
interesting and provide independent advice whilst bearing in mind that many visitors will not know much, if anything, about stairlifts.
The company's range of straight, curved and heavy duty lifts (for users up to 30 stone) are all represented.
January 2010 Click to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our stairlifts section
Mangar International, the experts in lightweight aids to moving and handling, are having a January sale, offering a 10% discount on all products, across the range. In addition to bath lifts, pillow lifts and emergency lifting cushions, Mangar also supplies a good selection of daily living aids, from user-friendly kitchen utensils to grab rails and dressing aids. All can now be purchased securely online from their website - with that 10% off if you order before the end of the month! January 2010 Click to visit this subscriber's storyboard page
AKW Medicare have a new catalogue available, detailing their extensive range of showering, daily living and kitchen products. one of the helpful new developments you will notice is that shower trays and screens are now sold separately, making it even easier to choose exactly the right installation to suit your needs. The catalogue provides comprehensive information on new sanitaryware and mobility product ranges that are now available. In addition, the latest Doc M range and new aesthetically pleasing shower screens for trays and wet floor showering are featured. January 2010 Click to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for the accessible bathroom section
JCM Seating, one of the largest specialist seating manufacturers in Britain, has just announced that its manufacturing capacity is to be increased by 25%, in order to meet growing demand from overseas. The expansion includes investment in new manufacturing technologies which will enhance production efficiency and reduce lead-times. JCM is also launching a new range of bikes next year, alongside the WRK trikes, which will be sold under the JCM brand, representing the final steps in the integration of WRK into the JCM Seating business. December 2009 Click to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for the specialist seating section
Anyone who finds their back and shoulders suffering from the strain of long periods sitting and leaning forwards at some task, will be interested in new information here about Mercado Medic's chest supporting chair. It has been designed so that you have support as you lean forwards, easing the pressure on your back. The range of ergonomic seating solutions also includes standing chairs, and office seating with mouse-arm support. December 2009 Click to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for the
ergonomic office section
Steering Developments' new Abi-Loader automatic wheelchair loading system
gives a disabled driver freedom to travel alone. It has been designed for simple operation at the flick of a switch, and delivers the
wheelchair from the boot to the driver's door in under half a minute. It is discreet and can be used in car parks and garages. Two
versions are available for either folded or fixed frame wheelchairs. December 2009 Click to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for the
motoring section
Buckingham Healthcare designed the knork to facilitate one-handed eating, with knife and fork functions combined in one utensil. The
latest development in the range is a contoured foam handle which fits snugly in the palm of the hand, making it easier for anyone
with a painful or weakened grip to use a knork. The knork can be used equally by left and right handers, and has no sharp edges to
cut the mouth. December 2009
Click to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for the
eating aids section
As winter really starts to bite, it is a good moment to look at any
measures to help keep your home warm while saving both money and resources. If you are over 70 or receiving benefits such as DLA,
Jobseekers allowance, Income support or Housing benefit, then you could qualify for free loft and cavity wall insulation. If you
aren't eligible, then npower is offering this insulation, professionally installed, from £149 each, for a limited period. December 2009 Click for
more on npower insulation offer • Click for the home insulation
section
Clootie Tree has a delightful new range of ceramics designed for people with
dementia or physical disabilities that make traditional crockery hard to manage. Features include a drinking spout that will also take a
straw and wide handles that are easy to grasp. The range was developed taking account of research from Stirling University's Dementia
Services Development Centre, where the Director, June Andrews, says "The Dignity range is the best we have seen so far". November 2009 Click to visit this
subscriber's storyboard page • Click for the
drinking aids section
Labour MP Anne Begg has categorically denied involvement with any campaign against government proposals to abolish
Attendance Allowance and Disabled Living Allowance for disabled people aged over 65, saying "the government is not 'axing benefits'
as the [Daily Mail] article said. There is nothing for me to rebel against." An Early Day Motion has been signed by a
number of MPs expressing concern over the proposals raised in the "Shaping the Future of Care Together" green paper to
abolish Attendance Allowance and Disability Living Allowance, and there seems to be confusion all-round about exactly what is being proposed by the government - although it is clear to me from reading the relevant bits of the green paper that retaining the benefits as currently delivered is not seen as an option. November 2009
AKW has added an extra dimension to their popular Worcester flatpack kitchen:
you can now order the accessible units pre-assembled. With a full range of sizes and options to cater for all requirements, including
cupboards with pull-down or pull-out baskets and rise and fall units, the cost effective Worcester range is the ideal kitchen for a
multi user household. There is also now a wider choice of door colours available. As a flatpack, the Worcester is offered with next
working day delivery; for preassembled units, the turnaround is five days. November 2009 Click to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for the
accessible kitchens section
Labour MP Anne Begg is leading the campaign by concerned backbenchers against government plans to get rid of Attendance Allowance,
a benefit paid to people aged over 65 with a disability for which they need help to look after themselves. It is currently claimed
by 1.6 million people, and there is mounting concern that it is going to be scrapped in order to help fund the government's proposed
social care insurance scheme. Ms Begg has written to ministers asking them to ensure that AA, and also Disabled Living Allowance
for the over-65s, is retained. Other backbenchers who are also fighting the proposed cuts include Jeremy Corbyn and Roger Berry,
chairman of the Commons disability group. Tory health spokesman, Andrew Lansley, has promised that they would retain the benefits.
November 2009
Jenry has made a significant enhancement to the Millie-Mova: it now goes backwards, as well as forwards!
The original product was developed to make it easier for a carer to push a seated client towards the dining table, and the new
reversing kit enables the chair to be pulled back in the same way, as well as making forward movement even easier. It doesn't
compromise the stability of the chair, and is recommended for users weighing up to 20 stone. November 2009
Click for the care home furniture section
For men who have to spend long periods in bed, Clootie Tree have designed an easy care bed-jacket that is more
comfortable and less bulky than a traditional dressing gown and looks nicer than a cardigan. Women have been able to buy bed-jackets
for years, but men also feel the cold! The easy-access dolman sleeves with poppers for wide opening when necessary, and the velcro
fastening, make it easy to put on and take off. British-made in top quality fleece, the bed-jacket is machine washable, quick drying
and comfortable. November 2009
Click to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for the
clothing section
The WAV Evolution was a brand-new look at wheelchair accessible vehicles, with a pricetag to match its high
specification. Recognising that there are many buyers out there who want the distinctive fulcrum technology, enabling the wheelchair
user to enter and leave the vehicle easily, and travel up front in their own chair, without necessarily requiring all the other
features of the original conversion, Wav-Evo Lite has now come to market, and is available on the Motability scheme for a
£15,995.00 advance payment. November 2009
Click to visit this subscriber's
storyboard page • Click for the
motoring section
AKW MediCare has now extended their product range further to include access ramps. These are manufactured from durable and slip resistant
glass reinforced plastic, a versatile material that is lightweight and non-corrosive. The extensive range offers many solutions to overcome
the majority of access problems, whether it is to gain entry to a house or to transfer a scooter with ease into a vehicle.
October 2009 Click to visit this subscriber's
storyboard page • Click for the
access ramps section
British walking aid manufacturer, Uniscan, has launched the Traveller, a brand new and innovative walking
frame which includes a unique feature allowing the handles to be neatly folded for storage and transportation. In combination with
the new folding backrest (introduced in January 2009) the Uniscan Traveller folds into a compact, neat package taking up minimum
space when stored or transported. The walker is available in a choice of five colours; Green; Blue; Grey; Burgundy or Black, and
will retail at £235.00, representing excellent value for money. October 2009
Click to visit this subscriber's
storyboard page • Click for the
walking frame section
Available in the
UK exclusively from Mountway, the Granberg CoatLift Clothes Rail Lift is an innovative solution for anyone who may have
difficulty reaching clothes in their wardrobe. It can be simply fitted into either an existing or a new wardrobe and
works by lowering the clothes rail down and out of the wardrobe in a curved motion, to within easy reach of a seated
person. It is available in two adjustable widths to fit wardrobes measuring 60-100 cm wide, and comes equipped with
either a cable hand control or remote control to operate it. October 2009
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storyboard page • Click for the
bedroom products section
Eurocare Showers have redeveloped their popular universal door range, following consultation
with specifiers and end users. Amongst the changes, new style handles designed for ease of use; a one-piece, ribbed floor
to ceiling post for extra support; rise and fall hinges as standard; a new ceiling rose with up to 100mm adjustment;
and new, improved seals. Style-conscious consumers will also be pleased to know that their sleek, satin silver finish
is available at the same price as standard white. October 2009
Click to visit this subscriber's storyboard page
• Click for the accessible showers section
This season, black is the new black, and Uniscan is part of the trend, with this new glossy colour option available across their range
of three and four wheeled rollators, at no extra cost. Other new features include
a new, larger seat with zipped and lined underseat storage pocket for the lightweight Cadet and Freeway, both of which previously
had a smaller seat, with no built-in storage on the Cadet. The price remains the same, so this development offers even better value.
Improvements to the safety locking mechanism on the Triumph tri-wheeler make it even easier and more efficient to operate. October 2009 Click to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for the walking aids and rollators section
The West Midlands is the first region to carry out a large-scale trial
of the Pivotell automatic medication dispenser. The project will test the use of the device for patients who have difficulty remembering to
take their complex pill regimes. The aim is to raise awareness of the dispenser and show that it can improve quality of life for users,
and allow them to remain living independently at home. It will also assess the potential savings that could be made both for the NHS and
local authorities by reducing the necessity of residential care or re-admissions to hospital. September 2009 Click to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for the telecare section
Kinderkey has launched a range of portable travel beds that are strong enough to be used as a permanent bed. Their Travel Cot
bed (shown here) can be supplied with or without a wooden frame. The beds can be made in different heights to suit the individual's requirements,
and the side walls fit around a standard size single mattress. The beds come with their own transport/storage bags, and are ideal for use in
hospitals, schools and hospices.
September 2009 Click to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for the care beds section
Mike Spencer's Ablequip has been included as one of the top 100 Companies in the UK, in Barclays Trading Places Awards.
Mike's experience trying to navigate a mobility scooter around confined spaces like shops and cafés led him to invent WheelLink,
a nifty gadget that enables you to carry a walker or wheelchair behind your scooter, so that you can park the "big beast"
and transfer to a more manoeuvrable aid when appropriate. Demand is such that Mike is looking to take on additional help to manage his workload. September 2009
Postural and pressure management specialists CareFlex have launched a new range of paediatric
chairs for children with special needs. The Huggle Snuggle and Sprite are cozy and brightly coloured, and enable correct yet relaxed postures
to be achieved for a variety of activities from feeding, to playing or watching TV. September 2009 Click to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for the specialist seating section
BaKare Beds is now offering the thoughtfully designed Vital rise and recline armchair in addition to their range of
adjustable beds. The chair has a horizontal lift action with a very high maximum height, and independent back and footrest controls
mobilised by two separate motors, allowing each section to be positioned exactly as required. Long armrests and a stable base facilitate
safer and easier transfers. September 2009
Click to visit this subscriber's storyboard page
• Click for the specialist seating section
JCM Seating can now supply their specialist Triton™ seating system seamlessly integrated with a range of mobility bases including the Otto Bock Kimba, a manoeuvrable and lightweight buggy base;
the Otto Bock Discovery, stable, versatile and suitable for both indoor and outdoor use; and the Invacare Spectra Blitz indoor/outdoor
powerchair for children with a compact design.The company also supplies its own range of compatible mobility bases. September
2009 Click
to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for the kids mobility section
Kingkraft has extended its range of products for children with disabilities with the introduction of the highly regarded Medema "iZi" car seats from Norway, which have the reputation of being the safest child's car seat available. Two models are available, for children in the 1-4 and 5-12 age range. The latter seat, the "iZi Up", is particularly sophisticated with a turntable arrangement which aids in getting a disabled child seated. The rearward facing iZi Kid and Comfort offer safety, support and stability whilst travelling in the car. Available in two colours and with a full range of accessories. September
2009 Click
to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for the kids mobility section
Wheelchair user Alma Lunt, from Liverpool, has won a High Court judgement against Liverpool City Council, who had refused to license wheelchair-friendly Peugeot E7 taxicabs as an alternative to the traditional London taxi-style vehicle, in which many wheelchair users find they have to travel facing sideways, with their chair unsecured and with no seat belt. The council was found guilty of discrimination by failing to make reasonable adjustments to help local wheelchair users. Susie Uppal, Director of Legal Enforcement at the Equality and Human Rights Commission, said: "Access to public transport, and taxis in particular, is a fundamental issue for disabled people and essential to them in order to access the same opportunities as non-disabled people." August
2009 Click for the community transport section
Nordic Care Services, now a Mountway company, has grown to offer an extensive range of industry renowned
moving and handling workshops, known as the 'Knowledge Zone'. Completely free of charge, the CPD accredited workshops are regarded as an
essential educational programme for occupational therapists, physiotherapists, or indeed any healthcare professional involved with moving
and handling on a regular basis. August
2009 Click
to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for the moving and handling section
Following the achievement of the Queen's Award for Enterprise, Sirus Automotive co-directors Simon Pearson and Russell Venvil were invited to Buckingham Palace to meet the Queen in person. Her Majesty selected Sirus as one of the companies she wanted to meet personally, to discuss how their converted vehicles are helping wounded servicemen returning from war and the Motability scheme. Russell commented on the event "It was an amazing evening, meeting the Queen in person is something I never even imagined. And to be selected to speak to her ... was a huge honour for both of us". August
2009 Click
to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for the adapted motoring section
Pivotell, the medication management experts, have added a disposable plastic tray to the range of accessories for their dispenser. Similar to a blister pack, the disposable tray will be pre-filled by a pharmacist and then be delivered to the user. It sits within the existing re-usable dispenser tray like a skin. When all of the medication has been taken by the user, the disposable tray can safely be disposed of as recyclable plastic and a new pre-filled disposable tray inserted in the dispenser. August
2009 Click
to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for the telecare section
Kingkraft's new storyboard page includes their new range of sensory therapy products designed to support children with special needs. The Protac ball blankets are weighted with polystyrene or plastic balls to provide deep pressure stimulation and promote a sense of calm and security. Their ball cushions help with balance and sitting posture, and may enhance concentration. August
2009 Click
to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for the sensory therapy section
The future of Gowrings Mobility, one of the country's leading vehicle converters, has been secured, as the business has been bought from the administrators by the Newship Group. The administrators were particularly pleased to have been able to keep the company trading while negotiations with the purchasers proceeded, meaning that the majority of jobs have been safeguarded and, as far as customers are concerned, it is "business as usual" at Gowrings. Company director, Janet Seward, said, "We are absolutely delighted that a buyer has been found. We can now concentrate on what we do best – enabling disabled people and their carers to carry on motoring and lead independent lives." July
2009 Click
to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for our accessible motoring section
With the introduction of Motability's "Nearly New WAV" scheme, two of the country's leading vehicle converters, Aspect Conversions and Constables Mobility, have joined forces to present customers with a selection of these affordable alternatives to a new wheelchair accessible vehicle. You can view currently available stock here July
2009 • Click for our accessible motoring section
Sirus Automotive has a Big Celebration coming up on 22nd July, when the Lord Lieutenant of the West Midlands will be presenting them with the Queen's Award for Enterprise which they recently won. The day will include a tour of their workshops and a mobility exhibition, including the Regional Driving Assessment Centre. Any money raised from the event will go to The English Federation for Disabled Sports - primarily West Bromwich Albion's powered wheelchair football team. July
2009 Click
to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for the accessible motoring section
Stairlift manufacturer, Freelift, has launched a new heavy duty stairlift for users weighing up to 30 stone. The Elite straight stairlift has an elegant and robust rail which takes up very little room on the stairs. The simple, unique design of the rail means all mechanical components are hidden inside, and it is attractively finished in a neutral, cream powder coating. July
2009 Click
to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for the stairlifts section • Click for the bariatric section
Topro has designed a new fourwheeled rollator, aimed at the active user. The Olympos is a sporty, lightweight folding walker made for comfortable use on rough surfaces. It has larger than normal tyres designed for use outdoors. The walker has a height adjustment with memory function, excellent brakes and kerb lifters, making it safe and practical to use when crossing raised surfaces or thresholds. July
2009 • Click for the walking aids section
Forcetenco, provider of assistive technology solutions, can now offer the popular Braille Sense Plus with a QWERTY keyboard for data entry. The updated and improved software is also available to download to any existing Braille Sense Classic or Plus. Very helpfully, all software updates are available free to users of Braille Sense and Voice Sense throughout the life of their machine. Combining the features of a notebook computer and Braille note taker, Braille Sense also offers GPS capability. July
2009 Click
to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for the visual impairment section
Sirus Automotive have provided a neat and versatile conversion for wheelchair users who like the option of travelling as either the driver or up front passenger. Their "Switch" is based on the Fiat Qubo M-Jet, and has a totally flat floor pan, enabling the wheelchair user to remain in their own chair while occupying either the driving or front passenger position. Access is quick and easy through the rear of the vehicle. June
2009 Click
to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for the motoring section
AKW MediCare, leading providers of showering and kitchens for elderly and disabled users, now offer a lifetime warranty against manufacturing
and material defects on all their non-electrical catalogued items. This quibble-free lifetime warranty, excluding normal wear and tear, in
general domestic applications, reflects the company's confidence in the quality and durability of their products. June
2009 Click
to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for accessible shower section
• Click for accessible kitchen design
Total Hygiene, manufacturer and supplier of the Clos-o-Mat range of automatic shower toilets and toileting accessories, has taken to the road with its specially-built demonstration van. The 'Bringing Independence to You' vehicle is fully equipped with a ramp and purpose-designed inside to enable easy wheelchair manoeuvrability. It incorporates working examples of the new Clos-o-Mat Palma automatic shower toilet, the Lima Lift height adjustable automatic shower toilet suite and an Aerolet toilet lifter which replicates the natural motion of standing and sitting and can be fitted over a conventional WC, plus details of the complete range of Total Hygiene's toileting accessories such as changing tables, height adjustable washbasins and grab rails. The vehicle is available for both home and professional organisation visits. June
2009 Click
to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for shower toilet section
Motability is introducing a new option from July for customers looking for a wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV). They will be able to lease a nearly new WAV, under 18 months old, on a three-year, 60,000 mile lease. The support package will include insurance, servicing, maintenance and breakdown cover, as for new vehicles. Prices will be around £500 lower than for a brand new WAV, and it will provide a means of redeploying some of the vehicles returned to Motability through early termination of leases. The vehicles will be supplied through the converters after being checked and quality assured. June
2009 • Click for motoring section
Wilcare, the seating solutions specialist, has a comprehensive new brochure which includes an educational section introduced to help specifiers choose the correct model of chair for their customers. The information includes a specifier's guide to how each type of rise and recline mechanism works and which mechanisms and motors are available for each chair. Along with a feature on the importance of key dimensions of the chair, and how to choose the most suitable model, the brochure guides the specifier step-by-step through the process of selection. June
2009 Click
to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for specialist seating section
Assisticare, the supplier of assisted bathing, showering, moving and handling solutions, has redesigned their website to include a section featuring real-life installations. The projects featured include a ceiling hoist installation, adjustable height washbasin, wall mounted changing table, easy access shower and assisted bathing solution featuring a Parker-style bath (as shown left). Site visitors can see how much work is involved in each project, and how they might look in their own property. June
2009 Click
to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for assisted bathing section
Lifemax has an innovative new Air Purifier which cleans
the air to remove pollen, dust and other allergens. It uses an innovative
five-in-one operation to remove 99% of particles, including HEPA filter,
activated carbon filter, UV light, photo catalyst filter and ionizer. It
also eliminates odours and vapours; kills germs, viruses, fungi and bacteria;
breaks down VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) and poisonous fumes. May
2009 Click
to visit this subscriber's storyboard page • Click for personal care section
Uniscan,
the Essex-based manufacturers of walking aids, have just won a coveted
Essex Countywide Business Award for Excellent Customer Service. The award
is for organisations demonstrating the highest standards of customer
care and service by adopting a positive and focused approach to meeting
customer needs. It is by far the most popular category and upon reaching
the final Uniscan had already beaten off some very stiff competition. Sales
and marketing director, Geoff Morris, shown holding the award, described
it as
"a testament to the hard work and support from all our staff ... a
resounding endorsement of their commitment to excellent customer service." May
2009 Click
to visit this subscriber's storyboard page
Wilcare
has added adjustable beds to their highly regarded range of rise and recline
chairs. The Wilcarematic range includes single and double beds, all electrically
adjustable to enable you to select the most comfortable position at the
touch of a button. With five part profiling, the beds combine a sturdy
wooden base with a choice of four different mattress options, including
Visco Elastic for pressure relief. May 2009 Click
to visit this subscriber's storyboard page
Astor
Bannerman's storyboard page has details of their latest products, including
the updated ABW6 and ABW6SP multifunctional height-adjustable washbasins,
designed for users with special and progressively changing needs. With
a generous height adjustment range of 450mm to suit all requirements, and
a range of touch-free taps, these washbasins are recognised and recommended
by the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign. May
2009 Click
to visit this subscriber's storyboard page
The
stunning new Volker Vis-a-Vis bed has just been awarded "Best New Product"
at Naidex. Available in the UK from BaKare Beds,
it allows face-to-face interaction at eye-level, and continues the Volker
philosophy of encouraging more participation in an active life. The
latest innovation follows the theory that forming the bed into a seat and
placing the client's feet firmly on the floor encourages even sometimes
immobile clients to stand. The lower-leg part of the bed can be shifted
to the side, allowing the patient to assume a sitting position. Special
drive motors were designed in conjunction with Porsche Engineering. April
2009 Click
to visit this subscriber's storyboard page
Swallow
Evacuation and Mobility has a new solution to the serious challenge faced
by emergency services in moving obese individuals. Their bariatric chair
is a sturdy addition to a range that includes the Pro-Move sling and Super
Trac - claimed to be the world's only portable inclined platform lift,
which can carry any wheelchair up and down stairs. Currently, the Fire
Service is being called on every day by the NHS to move somebody who is
just too big and heavy for their usual resources to manage safely. April
2009
The
Mem-x voice recorder is a clever new memory aid from Pivotell, designed
for those with some memory loss, for example, due to early dementia. The
device tells the user in a pre-recorded voice (usually of a relative) what
they have to do at a given time, from special events to routine daily tasks
such as taking medication. The front face - the Listening Side - is
simple and dedicated to the user. At the precise time required, the alarm
sounds. On the press of the large blue button the pre-recorded message is heard.
Up to 90 messages can be stored, each up to 10 seconds in length. April 2009 Click
to visit this subscriber's storyboard page
Check
out our editor's review of the Naidex exhibition. Covering
new and interesting products from more than one hundred exhibiting companies,
it is the easiest way for you to keep up-to-date with the latest in aids
to mobility and independent living, from the comfort of your own home or
office. April
2009 Click to visit our Naidex
feature
Bluebell
bungalow was built in Maidstone, Kent and designed by architect Richard
Paxton with the intention of removing traditional boundaries to manoeuvrability.
It uses the latest home technologies including Eclisse sliding door frames
to save space and improve internal circulation. The driving force behind
the decision to build this cutting-edge structure was to create an accessible
and modern home that would improve disabled owner Bill Letley's independence
and quality of life. April 2009
Ihear
has a new addition to their range of products for hearing impaired people
- the Digisystem is the world's first assistive listening hearing system
with both digital sound processing and secure encrypted digital transmission.
It is a modular system so that people can choose which microphone (to transmit
sound to the neckloop receiver) works best in their life / environment, providing
enhanced and clearer sound, with noise and hiss filtered out. March
2009 Click
to visit this subscriber's storyboard page
Mencap
Exeter has just had the official opening for their inclusive playground,
which features GL Jones' AbilityWhirl roundabout, as well as their AbilitySwing.
This is the first Fully Integrated Swing to be installed in an open non-supervised
play park, and is proving very popular already with visitors to the park.
The AbilitySwing combines traditional and more supportive swing-seats with
a wheelchair-adapted frame which has a unique four point clamping system
for chairs, allowing disabled children to enjoy swinging with confidence. March
2009 Click
to visit this subscriber's storyboard page
OpeMed's
unique Bea transfer lift has been designed to assist with standing, showering
and transport, encouraging patient rehabilitation. Made from powder-coated
stainless steel for maximum corrosion resistance, Bea has a capacity of
130 kg (20.5 stone). The solid seat and footrest have been positioned in
such a way as to maintain an upright posture for the patient, helping
them to sit and stand more easily. March 2009 Click
to visit this subscriber's storyboard page
Moore
(UK) is a new company which is supplying the award-winning Australian range
of Ezy-As Compression Stocking/Bandage Applicators and accessories. As
the name implies, it is as Ezy-As abc – you simply measure the
calf or arm to select the right size applicator, which you can then use
as an aid to apply stockings or tubular bandages. For
anyone with a limited reach, there is also a handle accessory that can
be used with any size applicator, to make it even easier. Ezy-As is compact,
lightweight and travel friendly. It comes
in three colour-coded sizes for easy identification. March
2009
Uniscan
has a new tray accessory for their 2009 Glider Plus Adjustable walker.
The tray is simple to fit and requires no repositioning when
handle height adjustments are made. The front edge of the tray clips onto
the backrest bar whilst the rear of the tray traps the edge of the rest
seat, providing a secure, level carrying platform. Each tray
is supplied with a hand washable non-slip mat. For storage and transportation,
the tray folds neatly with the walker.
It can also be rotated on the retaining
clips to rest on the backrest if the user wants to sit down on the rest
seat. February 2009 Click
to visit this subscriber's storyboard page
Wheelfreedom spotted a niche in the market for wheelchair hire at reasonable
rates on a short or long-term basis: the idea proved so successful that
they have now added more products, all manufactured by Sunrise Medical.
You can now hire a Little Gem II mobility scooter, a Basix elevated leg
wheelchair, or a Lotus bathlift, in addition to the Moonlite Breezy lightweight
foldable wheelchair - all for next day delivery across the UK. February
2009 Click
to visit this subscriber's storyboard page
Nordigo
is a clever new lever propulsion system for wheelchairs, which makes it
much easier to self-propel, using a natural rowing-type movement. Nordigo
can be retro-fitted to most rigid and folding chairs, using the appropriate
mounting brackets, and as it attaches to the frame rather than the wheels,
the latter remain quickly detachable for storage and transport. The frame
of the chair will still fold up as it did before Nordigo was fitted. For
active wheelchair users, this is a great way to use the upper body muscles
to better effect, travelling further and faster. February
2009
AKW
Medicare were recently able to help upgrade the facilities at the William
Merritt Disabled Living Centre within St Mary’s Hospital Leeds, by donating
a new Worcester accessible kitchen. The kitchen - which can be tried out
by people visiting the centre for impartial advice about living independently
at home - has features such as cupboards with pull-down and pull-out baskets,
free standing appliances and rise and fall units, making it suitable for
a multi user household. To celebrate the occasion an official opening was
hosted last month, with the Lord Mayor of Leeds in attendance. February
2009 Click
to visit this subscriber's storyboard page
The
Buddi gps personal tracker is now available in an even smaller format,
with a rechargeable battery that gives up to five days' use. Buddi
locates people instantly and accurately online, by phone or by text, making
it an ideal emergency support unit for anyone who may find themselves in
a situation where they need help. It is already being used by many local
councils and housing associations for their lone workers and for vulnerable
elderly people, such as those with dementia. Lightweight and small enough
to carry conveniently on a keyring, lanyard, or in a pocket, Buddi can
be bought for £299 rrp. and the emergency call centre service
costs £20 a month. Leasing options are also available. February
2009
If
you have ever tried to hire a wheelchair accessible vehicle, you will know
that it is not so easy to find a provider. Since Allied Mobility launched
their 'Open Road' service nationwide towards the end of last year, they have
found demand for short and long-term rental growing all the time. A number
of different vehicles are available at competitive rates, including mobility
cars, MPVs and minibuses. All
are designed and manufactured to meet stringent safety standards
and come with a variety of accessible features that include lightweight
folding ramps or passenger lifts, high quality wheelchair restraints and
electric winch systems. February 2009
Mission Cycles has new adapted tricycles and handcycles for children aged from about six. The
Rehatri - which can be dismantled easily for transporting in a car boot
- is brilliant red, and has a number of design features to make it suitable
for children with special needs. For example, the pedals are self-righting
with heel and instep straps; the seating position can be adjusted up, down,
forward and back, and the seat has both lap strap and seat-back chest strap
for security. The low centre of gravity makes it very stable, and there
is a parking brake for easy transfer of the rider. February
2009
Nova-Flo™ is
a simple new solution to the problem of bath floods. When fitted to a bath,
it simply turns off the taps automatically if you forget that you were
running one! An overflowing bath can happen to any of
us, and the risk is greater for people with cognitive impairments, and
their carers. The great advantage of the Nova-Flo is that, once installed
(a quick and simple job for a plumber), it needs no electricity or batteries,
no maintenance, no external controls. The unit works by triggering magnetic
valves to shut down the water flow whenever the bath is filled to the overflow
level. A very small amount of water continues to run, until the user turns
of the taps in the usual way, thereby re-setting the Nova-Flo. February
2009
JCM
Seating Solutions has developed, in collaboration with experienced physiotherapists,
the Proximat® kit for measuring hip range movement. Simple to use, reliable,
and child-friendly, Proximat overcomes common problems with existing techniques
such as goniometry. You can read the published study paper here. February
2009 Click
to visit this subscriber's storyboard page
If
you thought there was nothing but gloom in the auto industry, think again.
It is less than a year since Wav Evolution launched their revolutionary front-entry
wheelchair accessible vehicle in the UK - and now they have an exclusive,
multi-million pound deal for the patented technology to be used across the
Atlantic, by Autovan, one of the largest suppliers of adapted vehicles in
the States. As a result of the deal, Autovan have purpose-built a 25,000 square
foot premises dedicated solely to production of the vehicle. The first of
the Autovan Wav-Evolution models will be launched at the NMEDA (National
Mobility Equipment Dealers Association) conference in Daytona Beach Florida
on February 4th.
January 2009 Click
to visit this subscriber's storyboard page
The
Journey standaid from Joerns (Oxford Hoists) is an ultra-compact, folding
transfer aid, that can be easily stowed in the car boot for transportation.
Three years in design and development, it incorporates a unique three-position
cowhorn handle for the ultimate in flexibility and patient comfort - the
only standaid on the market with this feature, which makes it easier
for patients of all sizes to be comfortably moved into a standing position. January
2009 Click
to visit this subscriber's storyboard page
Lifemax
Direct has a clever new product that combines two useful functions: a low
energy lightbulb that is also an ionic air purifier. Lasting ten times longer
than a normal bulb, the 20 watt bulb gives an 80 watt output, while cleaning
the air of smoke, dust, odours, pollen, allergens and pet smells. Ten cubic
metres can be purified in minutes, helping also to eliminate airborne viruses.
The bulb costs £14.99. January
2009 Click
to visit this subscriber's storyboard page
PDS
Hygiene has a new storyboard page on the site, where you can read more
about the BIO Bidet, the only electronic toilet bidet seat with WRAS approval
for direct connection to the mains water supply. Able to be retro-fitted
to most standard toilets, it can help many disabled people to use the toilet
with independence and privacy, as well as improving hygiene and comfort
for anyone. January 2009 Click
to visit this subscriber's storyboard page
For
disabled drivers or carers driving a disabled passenger, it is vital to
have essential information at their fingertips, such as where they can
park with a Blue Badge; how the parking rules vary depending on which council's
area they are in; which petrol stations are disabled-friendly and whether
a destination will be accessible. Gowrings Mobility is announcing the first
dedicated Blue Badge sat-nav product, designed to support thousands of
disabled motorists around the UK. The BB Nav, built by Navevo, a leading
GPS software developer, covers 150 major cities and towns across the UK, including
all the London boroughs. It contains all of the features found on a standard
sat-nav but has been enhanced to provide detailed information for Blue
Badge holders. January
2009 Click
to visit this subscriber's storyboard page
NHS Fife physiotherapist, Aileen Pryde, was keen to improve
her treatment of patients with walking difficulties, who needed to strengthen
or correct their ankle muscle movements. She developed a new
piece of equipment which could be used together with any chair and conventional
physiotherapy resistance bands to enable the patient to do their corrective
exercises more easily. The Anklemate has now been launched in the UK by
Musmate Ltd. It consists of two wooden beams with a long groove and
three hooks on each side for connecting resistance bands. The four legs
of a chair are placed in the grooves of the two beams and the patient sits
on the chair. The resistance bands are attached to the hooks and exercises
carried out as required. The Anklemate is available in a range
of colours and is priced from £89 plus delivery. January
2009
The Independent Living industry - what shape is it in? How has it changed? Click to download our editor's overview as a pdf