Late fall to early winter can be the perfect time to squeeze in one last camping trip before chilly temperatures set in, and the Riley family had plenty of advice to offer. Shane and Ainslee Riley live in Maine with their two teenage sons, Liam and Evan, and the Rileys are avid travelers and enjoy camping. 

Both boys use complex rehabilitation technology (CRT) equipment for mobility, so the Rileys shared plenty of accessible travel and camping tips to help you prepare for your next trip. 

When planning a trip, what are some of the questions you ask or decisions you make beforehand? 

You need to determine what you will travel in that meets your needs. Will your accessible vehicle, if you have one, meet the needs for a long road trip? Will you rent an accessible vehicle or RV? If you plan to stay overnight on your way to your destination, are there accessible hotels or campsites en route? 

Also, be sure to research the accessibility at the campsite you plan to rent at your final destination and its proximity to an accessible restroom. Often non-accessible restrooms at campgrounds are very tricky to get into without a lot of heavy lifting and maneuvering, which also creates a lack of privacy. What is your ability to lift? If you can’t lift very much, you may need to travel with a portable lift to make these transitions easier. 

If you’re driving to your campsite, are there benefits to mapping out your route in advance?

We find it helpful to map our route and determine where to stay in advance. That gives us the opportunity to ensure we get an accessible room or campsite with appropriate restroom facilities for our needs. We also research the area for accessible activities and figure out how to make activities that aren’t easily accessible doable for us. 

For wheelchair users and their families and friends, what advice can you offer about selecting a campsite? 

Select an accessible campsite, but also research to ensure that the area where you will put your tent is flat and you can drive a power wheelchair up to it. Having a lightweight transport chair for getting in and out of the tent—and sometimes into the shower areas—is helpful. Our sons sleep more comfortably on a cot with a sleeping pad rather than on the ground, and that also makes it easier for us to pick them up. Again, depending on your ability to lift, you may want to bring a slide board or lift with you. We also have a tent we can stand up in, which makes transfers, helping with dressing and other tasks a little easier. 

If you use a power wheelchair, you’ll want to think about how you’ll charge the battery. If there’s no power at your site, you will need a portable charger or generator of some sort. If you use your vehicle to charge a power wheelchair battery, you risk killing your car battery. 

When planning activities—the things you’ll do and see on your trip—what are some things wheelchair users and their caregivers should consider? 

Research thoroughly. Online information can be misleading, so call ahead to confirm details. Ask about ramp access, transitions and any barriers. For example, some places may consider a 6-inch step “accessible” when it’s not for many CRT users. Specific questions can make or break your plans—especially in areas with variable terrain, like islands with gravel paths.

A National Parks Access Pass can be very helpful too, granting free entry for disabled individuals and up to three guests at all National Parks. We’ve taken our boys to accessible viewing trails in places like Arches National Park and Washington D.C., which has excellent accessibility.

Traveling with your sons, who both use wheelchairs, takes a lot of planning. Why would you encourage other CRT users and their friends or families to travel? 

Why not? It does require some additional advanced planning and research, but it’s worth it. There may be a learning curve at first—and you’ll discover things you wish you’d packed or questions you should have asked—but you’ll know for the next time. You might face unexpected challenges and have to get creative with your solutions, but as long as you’re together and having fun, it makes for great memories. 

You sometimes travel with one or both of your sons’ service dogs. Any advice for CRT users who might be traveling with a service animal? 

Once you know where you’re going, contact your vet to make sure there aren’t additional precautions you need to take or vaccinations your service dog might need. For example, in Georgia, dogs aren’t required to have a vaccination for Lyme’s disease, but in Maine they are. 

Any last pieces of advice for fellow travelers or campers? 

A disability doesn’t have to stop you from traveling. Just this year, one or both of us have traveled with our sons to Puerto Rico, Hurricane Island and Monhegan Island for school trips, taken a cross-country road trip, camped in Colorado and Utah with the Trekkers, and, most recently, gone to Hawaii for a Make-A-Wish trip. We traveled to Baltimore, Boston, Philadelphia, throughout New England, New Jersey, New York, Florida and more. We love to travel! 

Looking for ramps, lifts or other accessibility products that might enhance your travel plans? Reach out to your local National Seating & Mobility branch to learn more about your options.

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At most colleges and universities, the fall semester is in full swing. For first-year students, though, it can take a little time to acclimate to this new season of life and learn to navigate new schedules, expectations, relationships and more. 

But for students who use complex rehabilitation technology (CRT) equipment, it’s best to be a little proactive when making that adjustment to your new home away from home. Here are a few tips from students Rosie Dunn and Alex Johnson and Dr. Misty Parsley, executive director of the Office of Accessibility and Learning Support at Lipscomb University, to help make that transition a little easier. 

1. Don’t procrastinate when it comes to accommodations.
Once you’ve made your college decision, go ahead and get the accommodations process started for accessible housing, parking and other modifications or services you may need. This process might require documentation, so getting an early start can ease stress levels later on. Rosie advises asking for a list of needed documentation early on so you can share it with your doctor, insurance provider, therapists or others. If you have meetings or calls to discuss your accommodation needs, take notes and be sure to send or ask for a follow-up summary of these discussions so everyone is on the same page.

2. Get to know the housing staff. 
“Make sure your dorm director and residence hall staff know you,” Alex says. “Make sure they know about your situation and your needs and don’t be afraid to ask about any accommodations you might need in your room.”

It’s advice Dr. Parsley echoes. “If you live on campus, check in with the housing staff so you know what the plan is for emergencies,” she says. “Every campus should have some type of emergency plan and if a student needs extra help during an emergency, we need to make sure it’s specifically written into the plan.”

3. Develop a relationship with the disability services office.
“Sometimes, students who use wheelchairs don’t register with our office because as long as the elevators and the buttons to open doors work, they can get around,” Dr. Parsley says. Even if you don’t think you need additional accommodations, the faculty and staff in your school’s disability services office can be a great resource to help you have the best college experience possible.

“I want to know who’s on our campus, so that if something happens, like a broken elevator, I can have a backup plan and know which students I need to reach out to,” Dr. Parsley says. “Some students may not need accommodations, but it’s important to us to know who they are and to have already developed a relationship if at some point they do need something.”

4. Communicate proactively with professors and college staff.
Getting to know your professors is an important first step for all first-year students, Alex says. “Introduce yourself to your professors so you can get to know them, and they can get to know you,” he says. “That’s generally good advice for anyone because your professors can help you do your best in college.”

That’s important advice for many reasons, Alex says, but one of the biggest is that you become more than a face in the crowd. If professors, instructors and faculty members know you, your interests and your desire to do well in your classes, they will likely be more willing to help you if issues arise. Also take the extra step to talk to them about any accommodations or needs you might have that will help you do your best work in class.

Rosie agrees and advises students to email professors if you’re going to miss class for any reason, but especially if it’s an accessibility issue. “Just give the professors a heads up,” she says. “If the sidewalk hadn’t been cleared from my dorm, I would email my professors and let them know I wasn’t coming because I wasn’t going to risk getting stuck.”

If accessible entrances are blocked or equipment isn’t working as it should, notify the disability services office or reach out to dorm or facilities staff to report the problem so it can be fixed.

5. Recognize that everyone is a little nervous.
College is full of new experiences, from living away from home for the first time to learning to manage your own schedule. It’s OK to feel nervous or overwhelmed at times.
“Even if you’re really excited about college like I was, you’re going to feel overwhelmed and homesick at times,” Rosie says. “Realize that everyone is a little nervous and worrying about their own things, too.” 

“One of my biggest worries was about getting integrated and making good connections with people on campus,” Alex admits. “But now I’m a part of a bunch of extended friend groups, and I have good, close friends I hang out with regularly. I don’t really know why I was so concerned about that. I’m enjoying my time at college.”  

It’s also important to have a plan for wheelchair repairs, especially if your college or university isn’t close to home. Make sure to schedule a visit to your hometown branch for a tune-up before you head to campus, but also take the time to locate and meet the team at a branch near your college or university. Need help finding an NSM branch? Use our branch locator.

The post Tips to Make Your First Year Easier appeared first on NSM — National Seating & Mobility.

Just a few weeks into his freshman year of college, Alex Johnson is enjoying the independence of this new season of life. 

“Everything’s going great,” the 19-year-old says. “My classes are a little challenging, but that’s nothing that I didn’t expect going into college. I’m enjoying the independence aspect of it. I’m able to be my own person and take on my own tasks.” 

While Alex is enjoying his college experience, the transition from high school to college can be challenging—for parents and students alike. Students have to navigate greater independence and increased responsibility while parents must take a step back and allow their children to make decisions for themselves. 

It’s a stressful transition for all parents, but especially for parents of children with a disability. Alex has used a wheelchair since he was about six, and his dad, Nathan Johnson, says watching his son head off to college has been a season full of competing emotions. 

“There were lots of emotions throughout Alex’s senior year, but when it came time to move him and leave him at Lipscomb, that’s when my emotions ran extremely high,” Nathan recalls. “There was some anxiety and sadness, but all that faded when I realized that he is happy in his new environment.

“The biggest transition for me is getting used to the idea of not being right there if he needs help,” Nathan continues. “Like many other parents working through this transition, you realized that you have been preparing your children for this stage in life. Now it’s time to let go and let them soar. In our case, we had a few extra layers to deal with in preparing Alex for college.” 

Making the College Decision

For Alex and his family, Alex’s college decision began with touring colleges and universities. Knowing he’d be rolling across campus multiple times a day, Alex wanted to make sure he was comfortable managing the campus, including classroom buildings, residence halls and simply navigating sidewalks and pathways. 

“We started the process on the initial campus visits at different schools,” Nathan recalls. “We wanted to see who was ready and who wasn’t ready for a wheelchair user.”

“Looking at the small details” down to the way Alex was included—or in some cases, excluded—from campus tours with other prospective students helped the Johnsons navigate Alex’s final decisions about where to attend college. 

“Once Alex decided to attend Lipscomb,” Nathan says, “the thought process went toward making his transition as smooth as possible.” 

For the Johnsons, that meant starting the conversation with Lipscomb University’s Office of Accessibility and Learning Support. Dr. Misty Parsley serves as the office’s executive director. 

“I had gotten to know Alex pretty well because he’d been on campus for two years doing his wheelchair challenge, and I’d gotten to know his dad,” Dr. Parsley says. “When he came, I told him, ‘Our campus is not perfect, and we’re still learning, so you have to be willing to communicate with me about what you need.’”

Dr. Parsley’s words built upon a foundation Alex’s parents had started putting in place since he was young. 

“We raised Alex to be as independent as possible,” Nathan says. “We also raised him to know that it’s OK to ask for help, and it’s OK to advocate for yourself by offering a suggestion that may be helpful for wheelchair users. The majority of people are willing to help; they just need to be educated on the specific needs of wheelchair users.” 

Planning for Alex’s Move

Keeping the lines of communication open with Lipscomb was vital for the Johnsons as they began to prepare for Alex’s freshman year. The summer before Alex started his freshman year, the family set up meetings with different departments across campus including the Office of Accessibility and Learning Supports as well as housing, financial aid and food services. 

“With a wheelchair user in the family, we have learned to plan everything,” Nathan says. “Moving to college took a lot of planning, so, parents, start early.” 

Planning for all possible scenarios is something Alex and his family have been doing for most of his life, and heading to college was no different. The family arranged for a visit to a residence hall to take measurements and ask a lot of questions that helped them make informed decisions about Alex’s on-campus living situation. 

“I use both a manual and power wheelchair for my day-to-day,” Alex says. “So, living with another person in a small dorm room probably wasn’t going to be doable. My mom was worried that with a private room I wouldn’t get out and meet people, but that hasn’t happened. I’m a people person, and I enjoy being around others and sharing community.” 

For Nathan, talking through common tasks and the accessibility aids Alex might need to complete them on his own was another moment of transition. The family worked through the daily tasks of Alex’s life to make sure he could live as independently as possible. 

“Bringing the closet rods down to his level, using command hooks to make drawer pulls or openers, elevating furniture so he can get his wheelchair under the desk—those are all things we had to think about,” Nathan says. 

The Johnsons also had to think through all the what-ifs, which often turned into conversations with Dr. Parsley and her team. 

“What if the power goes out?” Nathan asks. “What if Alex is on an upper floor of a building, how does he get down? Is there an accessible bathroom in the building? These are all questions Alex had to think through and advocate for to develop plans. Thankfully, Lipscomb has been wonderful at helping us get everything lined up.” 

Enjoying the New Season

While Nathan is excited to see his son thrive in this new, more independent season of life, the transition—and the conversations they’ve had to have because of it—haven’t always been easy. 

“We’ve really let Alex take the lead on the college process,” Nathan says. “When questions have come up, we’ve worked through them, but the conversation that always bothers me is the one about not being able to always go where your friends go or do the things they do. 

“We all know that the American Disabilities Act (ADA) requires the bare minimum, so this leads to places, especially older businesses and buildings, that aren’t accessible,” Nathan continues. “If Alex can get in the door, can he get to a table? Use the restroom? Get to where his friends are sitting?” 

But as Alex closes in on the end of his first semester of college, he couldn’t be happier. He’s been able to make friends, learn a lot (about himself and his major) and stretch his wings a bit. If he could give any advice to his younger self, it would be simple: 

“College is going to be a lot better for you than high school,” he says. “I’m just really enjoying my time here at college. It’s been a breath of fresh air.” 

The post A Breath of Fresh Air appeared first on NSM — National Seating & Mobility.

There’s a lot to consider when making your college decision, especially for college students who use Complex Rehabilitation Technology (CRT) for mobility. 

Recently, we chatted with Rosie Dunn, a 2022 graduate of the University of Notre Dame and current graduate student at Belmont University in Nashville, and Alex Johnson, a freshman at Lipscomb University, a faith-based, liberal arts college in Nashville, about their experiences, advice and insight for new and soon-to-be college students. Dr. Misty Parsley from Lipscomb University also offered insights as a university administrator. 

Meet the Experts

Rosie Dunn is a 2022 graduate of the University of Notre Dame, who recently completed a graduate program in disability studies at University College Dublin. Rosie is currently pursuing a doctorate in occupational therapy at Nashville’s Belmont University. She is a full-time manual wheelchair user after suffering a spinal cord injury at a young age. 

Alex Johnson just began his freshman year at Lipscomb University in Nashville, where he is a pastoral leadership major. Alex grew up in Tennessee and advocates for accessibility and disability awareness through an awareness program he and his dad, Nathan, developed called “Spend a Day in My Wheels.”

Dr. Misty Parsley is the executive director of the Office of Accessibility and Learning Support at Lipscomb University in Nashville. In this role, Dr. Parsley works to ensure accessibility and inclusion to students and campus visitors with any type of disability. 

Advice to Help Navigate Your College Decision

If you’re visiting college this fall in preparation to make your college decision, Rosie and Alex had a few suggestions to guide you through the process. 

1. Visit your top choices.
   “I recommend that you visit any school you’re applying to or seriously considering in person,” Rosie says. While virtual visits can be helpful, visiting the campus in person gives you a feel for the campus terrain, environment and atmosphere. “I toured schools I really liked on paper, but visiting helped me to see if I could physically navigate campus on a regular basis,” Rosie says. “It’s really valuable to see the campus with your own eyes and interact with people and see if it’s an environment you want to be in.”
   
   Virtual visits, photos and videos are helpful, but there’s nothing like rolling around campus on your own wheels. A visit can help you gauge the terrain and decide if it’s something you can physically navigate day-in and day-out, Alex advises. “Make sure you visit and that you’re comfortable managing campus,” he says. 

It’s also important to think about things like weather. Rosie knew that Notre Dame would have colder weather and more snow than her hometown, Nashville. “It snows a lot at Notre Dame, and it’s very cold,” she says. “I had to think about if I was physically able to handle those temperatures and ask questions about how quickly they are about clearing the sidewalks when it snows.”

2. Meet with disability services.
   All colleges and universities that receive federal funding must have a disability services office and provide accommodations for students with disabilities. Both Rosie and Alex advise reaching out to the disability services offices at your top schools while you’re still in the process of making your decision.
   
   “Make sure you meet with the Office of Accessibility or whatever your school calls the disability services office and introduce yourself personally,” Alex says. “They can help you get integrated with campus and help you with any accommodations you may need. It’s not a shameful thing to have to need a little help.”
   
   Prospective students should ask questions about things that might seem obvious—parking, accessible entrances, or the process for taking out your trash or getting your mail—so that you know what solutions are in place for students with disabilities before you make your decision or move to campus.
   
   Those are conversations Dr. Misty Parsley says most disability services offices welcome, especially at Lipscomb. 

“One of our core values at Lipscomb is belonging, so we want to make sure anyone who comes to Lipscomb feels like they belong here,” she says. “Students with disabilities and their families can help to educate us [about accessibility]. So it’s really important to find a campus that’s willing to listen and develop a relationship with you as a student.

“So, as you’re looking at colleges, get to know the staff in the disability services office,” she continues. “Even if you don’t think you need accommodations, at some point in your college career, you may need help from our office, and we want to make sure that relationship is already developed.”

3. Talk to students who use mobility equipment.
   Talking with students who navigate campus in a wheelchair or use other mobility equipment can be a great way to get a glimpse of what it’s like to live there, Rosie says. “I talked with a girl who was a year ahead of me and was able to get her perspective of what it’s like to really be a student there,” Rosie says. If you already know a CRT user who is a student at one of your top schools, Rosie suggests reaching out. Otherwise, ask the disability services office about students who might be willing to share about their college experience. 

If you’re in the process of making college visits this fall, take a few minutes to research local wheelchair providers close to your top schools. Once you’ve made your decision, schedule a visit to meet the local team before the school year begins. Use our branch locator to find a local NSM branch.

The post Navigating Your College Decision appeared first on NSM — National Seating & Mobility.

For wheelchair riders, well-maintained, functioning equipment isn’t just important, it’s vital. 

Working manual or power chairs allow users to move through life—going to work or school, enjoying time with friends and family, running errands and living independently. A malfunctioning mobility device can disrupt these activities, leading to lost income, decreased independence and health complications. 

To avoid these setbacks, it’s crucial to keep your equipment in optimal condition. Here are several small tasks you can perform regularly to extend your chair’s life.

1. Clean your chair regularly.
   Wipe down your chair with a damp cloth and mild detergent, focusing on areas that come in contact with your body, like armrests, seats, and headrests. This simple cleaning routine prevents grime from building up and keeps your chair looking and feeling fresh. Regular cleaning also helps prevent the spread of germs and illnesses, keeping you and your family healthier.
   
2. Care for the casters.
   Front casters increase maneuverability but also tend to collect debris like hair and lint, which can impede performance. Clean casters regularly, and if necessary, remove the bolt to clear out trapped particles. You may need assistance from a caregiver or technician for this. Manual chair users should also check caster alignment and alert a technician to make these precision adjustments, so contact your local wheelchair provider such as National Seating & Mobility (NSM) to set up a maintenance check. Casters that are square and properly aligned will roll straighter, longer and easier.
     
3. Wash cushions and other removable items.
   Most wheelchair cushion covers are machine washable, so wash them regularly. Six months after delivery, you could qualify for a new cushion cover, so talk to your wheelchair professional about your options. Before washing, inspect the cover for excessive wear or tears and follow the care instructions provided in your user manual. Once the cover is removed, the actual cushion can be cleaned, but the method depends on what type of cushion you have. Also take a few seconds to clean underneath your cushion where dust and crumbs can easily collect.

REMINDER: Insurance may provide coverage for a new seat and back cushion every two years. Since the materials on seating may wear down, you should check with your wheelchair provider at the two year mark to consider replacement. You may only need a physician’s prescription for replacement, if it is not considered custom molded seating.

4. Check all nuts and bolts on a regular basis.
   Everyday use, rough terrain, and travel can loosen screws and bolts. Every few months, inspect your chair for loose hardware, especially on headrests, wheel locks and cushion hardware. Use an Allen key to tighten these areas. If you notice more complex issues, schedule a check-up with your local wheelchair provider.
   
5. Monitor tire pressure.
   Low tire pressure makes manual chairs harder to push and makes it harder for power chairs to maneuver, so check the pressure regularly. Manufacturers often print the recommended pressure on the side of the tire. In addition to requiring users to push significantly harder, severely under-inflated tires can eventually cause damage to rims and spokes. Some wheelchair users may opt for flat-free inserts that use a lightweight polyurethane membrane and don’t require air.
   
6. Take care of the battery.
   Power chair users should monitor their batteries for signs of wear, like dim lights, a rotten-egg smell or slow startup. To maintain battery health, fully charge it daily. Although most batteries reach full charge between 80-100%, leave the chair plugged in for two extra hours to ensure maximum capacity. Since chargers automatically shut off when fully charged, consider investing in an outlet timer to manage extended charging periods.

If your chair starts making unusual noises or feels off, reach out to your local wheelchair provider to schedule a check-up. If there is a broken component or something is malfunctioning, insurance may cover those repairs. Taking care of a problem early can often help avoid a catastrophic failure. If you don’t have a wheelchair provider, use the our branch locator to find an NSM branch near you. 

ADVOCACY ALERT: Help Make Preventive Maintenance a Covered Benefit for Wheelchair Riders

While research has shown that preventive maintenance can play a vital role in preventing catastrophic failures,  most insurance providers do not currently cover it. NSM and other industry advocates are supporting research and proposing legislation to make the case for preventative maintenance coverage.

In April 2024, Tennessee became the first state to pass a bill requiring Medicaid reimbursement for preventive maintenance, which the governor signed into law in late May. Ongoing advocacy efforts continue in other states, with advocacy organizations like the National Coalition for Assistive and Rehab Technology (NCART), the American Association for Homecare (AAHomecare) and the International Registry of Rehabilitation Technology Suppliers (iNRRTS) urging reform. 

Ways you can get involved: 

• Stay informed. Follow NCART, iNRRTS, AAHomecare and other advocates to stay up-to-date about ongoing efforts. 
• Contact your local lawmakers. Find local elected officials and contact them to discuss the importance of preventive maintenance for CRT users. 

Share your story. Personal experiences are powerful tools for change. Partner with advocacy organizations or use social media to share how coverage for preventive maintenance would help improve your life.

The post Essential Preventive Maintenance for Wheelchair Riders appeared first on NSM — National Seating & Mobility.

Fall break, a weekend getaway, an off-season vacation—whatever your reason, fall is the perfect time to get away. Ashley Lyn Olson, the creator of wheelchairtraveling.com, recently chatted with us about travel and offered a few tips on planning a fall trip to a few favorite destinations: the beach, national parks, a weekend getaway and the best places to get a glimpse of amazing fall colors.  

About Ashley Lyn Olson

Paralyzed in a car accident when she was 14, Ashley Lyn Olson began wheelchairtraveling.com in 2006. The mission: to empower people with limited mobility to access and experience the world of leisure and adventure travel.  “When more of us are out and about doing what we love, the world responds by becoming more accessible,” Ashley says. “For us to be heard, we need to be seen.” The site has grown into a comprehensive travel resource offering detailed guides, tips and reviews on accessible destinations, transportation, accommodations and activities worldwide. 

Wherever you’re planning to travel this fall, Ashley offered a few insights on planning your next trip. 

“When you’re planning any trip, you have to think about your objective,” Ashley says. “What is it you want to do? Do you want to just chill or hang out at the hotel? Or, do you want to explore? Have an adventure? How active do you want to get?”

In addition, Ashley advises travelers to think about their physical needs as well as the environment of their destination when planning a trip. 

“Have an honest conversation with yourself about your physical needs,” Ashley recommends. “Do you need to take a break in the middle of the day? Will you be transferring in and out of the car a lot or pushing your chair on bumpy roads? What about temperatures and altitudes your body isn’t used to? These are all things you need to think about. It’s also a good travel practice to have a conversation with caregivers and companions about their needs and expectations. Understanding generates flow.” 

Heading to the Beach? 

A fall beach vacation can be a wonderful time to enjoy the sand and surf without the larger crowds of summer (depending on when and where you decide to go). 

What to Pack

In addition to the usual beach gear, like towels and sunscreen, Ashley recommended bringing along adaptive equipment like:: 

• Beach mat or rug
• Beach-friendly footwear
• Cooling towel to help regulate your temperature
• Adaptive floating devices or any adaptive sports gear you might want to enjoy
• Portable shower chair to use to rinse off
• First aid kit and waterproof smartphone in case of an emergency. 

Ashley’s Advice

A little research before your trip can go a long way, especially if you want to rent a beach wheelchair. You may be able to reserve a beach wheelchair before you go, but if not, your research will help you know where to go once you arrive. “Lifeguard towers are a good place to start,” Ashley says, “but most of the time they’re in the middle of the sand, so a companion might have to go out and ask. If they don’t have beach wheelchairs there, they should know where they’re located. 

Sometimes beach wheelchairs are locked up in an accessible area with a phone number posted. Lastly, try calling the lifeguard headquarters, although getting a hold of a live person can be challenging. ” More and more, vendors are starting to rent beach chairs near popular beach locations, Ashley says. While vendors often charge a fee for usage, beach wheelchairs offered by the state and city are often free. Most beach wheelchairs need to be pushed by someone else, but a few power beach wheelchairs exist. 

Destinations to Consider 

• San Diego, California: “San Diego and the greater San Diego Area is definitely one of the best beach destinations in the world in terms of accessibility, pathways and beach chairs,” Ashley says. Santa Monica and Santa Cruz, both close to San Diego, are also good options. 
• Florida: “Florida is just one great, amazing beach,” Ashley says. Options include Clearwater Beach and Fort De Soto Park, which offers access to the beach as well as a scenic walkway. Siesta Key Beach, St. Augustine Beach, Pensacola Beach, Juno Beach Park, and Delray Beach also are great choices and have beach wheelchairs and walkways.
• Lakes: If a lake is more your speed, Ashley suggests Sand Harbor at Lake Tahoe in Nevada, Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri, Flathead Lake in Montana or Lake Michigan’s Warren Dunes State Park. Fishing and kayaking are great ways to enjoy access to lakes. Another way to see the biggest lakes in America is to take a cruise around the Great Lakes. Other ideas include Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Indiana Dunes National Park, Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, and Presque Isle State Park. 

Planning a Trip to a National Park? 

A fall trip to one of America’s national parks might be the perfect way to celebrate the season, but they do take a bit of planning and forethought. “Energy and stamina are important when planning a trip to a national park,” Ashley says. “You also have to think about the kind of terrain you’ll be on—if it’s sand, small rocks, wet or dry. Altitude changes may physically affect bodies or equipment. Air cushions definitely require monitoring.” Ashley also advises researching and checking in with adaptive recreation organizations in the area to see what kinds of activities might be available, like adaptive biking, paragliding, nature walks or more. 

Ashley’s Advice

If your trip involves camping, it’s best to try to reserve an accessible site ahead of time. “I’ve been to parks where there is a first-come, first-served accessible camping site in addition to ones that may be reserved,” Ashley says. “It can be good to inquire about various  options, such as bathroom approximation,  electrical hook-ups to charge your power chair or other equipment, or the best view.”

What to Pack or Consider

Special items or gear you might want to bring along include: 

• Portable generator so you can power up your chair or other equipment between trails or other activities that use a lot of battery
• Sleeping bag and a cot if you’re camping (“Cots are raised off the ground and are easier to get on and off,” Ashley advises.)
• Portable toilet 
• Portable ramp (shortest and lightest for chair)
• Transportation: Some parks may provide in-park accessible transportation; inquire at the visitor’s center. 
• Picnic lunches or snacks, especially if you’ll be hiking or exploring
• A sense of adventure: “Bring an open mind and the need for adventure,” Ashley says. “And, most importantly, bring the utmost respect for Mother Nature.” 

Destinations to Consider

Fall can be a great time to visit national parks, especially if you’re looking for fall colors and cooler temps. But autumn is also the perfect time to visit desert locations, which can be less crowded and just as beautiful in the fall. Here are a few parks to consider:

• Mammoth Caves National Park
• Cuyahoga Valley National Park
• Congaree National Park
• Acadia National Park
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Yellowstone National Park
• Grand Teton National Park
• Yosemite National Park
• Death Valley National Park
• Carlsbad Caverns National Park
• Utah National Parks: Zion, Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands and more

Want the Perfect Weekend Getaway in the City?

Fall is a great time for a weekend getaway, and the United States is full of fun cities to visit, depending on your location and whether you want to travel by car or airline. When planning your visit, Ashley suggests doing research beforehand to figure out what sites you want to see or activities you might want to do as well as understand where accessible bathrooms are generally located and what transportation options exist. 

Ashley’s Advice

“Attractions in the city are closer together than in national parks,” Ashley says, “but don’t feel like you have to cover everything.” Instead, Ashley suggests taking your time to really experience the place you’re visiting, whether it’s a historical site or museum or something else. “You travel to observe and experience a culture,” she says. “If you’re rushing around you might miss out on the details and that’s where the good bits are. Don’t try to do everything.” 

Destinations to Consider

Major cities like New York City and Chicago are perennial fall travel favorites, Ashley says, but the U.S. has plenty of amazing sights to offer in autumn, including: 

• Albuquerque or Santa Fe, New Mexico
• Monterey or Santa Barbara, California
• Charleston, South Carolina
• Savannah, Georgia
• Austin, Texas
• Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
• Nashville, Tennessee
• Madison and Milwaukee, Wisconsin (“They have Midwest charm down,” Ashley says.)

Ready to See Some Fall Colors? 

There’s nothing quite like the changing leaves of fall, and America offers a variety of places to glimpse all the shades of orange, yellow, red and gold you can imagine. 

What to Pack

In addition to the things you’d pack for a fall trip that involves some time outdoors (i.e. bring your jacket or coat), Ashley recommends: 

• If you’re flying, bring along a few tools, such as an Allen wrench or extra caster wheels, in case your chair is damaged during travel 
• If you have a power chair, it might be good to also bring along a manual chair or a back-up that you’d be comfortable in if something went wrong with your power chair 
• Seat cushion and/or back cushion
• Extra clothing and medical supplies
• Anti-slip padding or belts
• Adaptive clothing and comfortable shoes
• First-aid kit, wipes, sanitizers, hygiene equipment

Destinations to Consider

In addition to the national parks Ashley recommended earlier, other destinations include: 

• Wine Country: “They are so beautiful in the fall, even if you don’t drink wine,” Ashley says. “Just visit the area and enjoy the beauty of it.” Her suggestion? Calistoga, California in the Sonoma Wine Country. The Napa Wine Train is an option for some wheelchair users. Visiting one of Oregon’s wine regions is also worth considering. 
• Deserts and other locations that are cooler in the fall: “Anywhere that’s ridiculously hot in the summer, go there in the fall,” Ashley says. The location, such as national parks located in the desert or warm weather locales like beaches can be just as beautiful and rewarding to visit in the off-season. 

For more travel ideas and tips on planning your next accessible vacation, check out Ashley’s website, wheelchairtraveling.com. 

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Road trips are a unique way to experience your country, from seeing the sights to experiencing local communities and cultures. But for CRT users, hitting the road often also means knowing what to do if your CRT equipment breaks down. 

TIP 4: HAVE A REPAIR PLAN.

If your car breaks down during a road trip, getting it fixed is a matter of finding a good nearby mechanic—but that’s not the case for CRT equipment. 

“I wish I could say that fixing equipment worked like fixing cars,”says Brian Littlefield, an NSM assistive technology professional (ATP) in Bangor, Maine. “Ninety percent of the time insurance is involved, so there are lots of factors that have to be taken care of. The process takes time.” 

If something does go wrong while you’re traveling, Littlefield suggests: 

• Reach out to your home branch. Contact your ATP, customer service representative or technician and explain what’s going on with your equipment. They can help you locate a nearby NSM branch and connect you with professionals who can assess the problem. Consider calling the branch location first to check availability.
• Visit an NSM branch near your current location. Make sure to tell them your name, your home branch location and the ATP or person you work with in the service department there. Provide as much information about the problem as you can. 
• Have an evaluation. The professionals at the branch you’re visiting will assess your equipment and try to determine what is causing the problem. If it’s a simple adjustment and someone is available, they’ll work to help you out. If the repair isn’t a quick fix, they’ll get a quote for repairs and share all that information with your home branch. This allows your home branch to get the documentation process started before you get home. 
• Be patient. Staffing at locations can vary and the ATPs and technicians at the branch you’re visiting likely already have appointments scheduled for the day. You may have to wait a bit for an opening. 

“It’s never ideal when something isn’t working, especially when you’re traveling,” Littlefield says. “But let’s see if we can get your equipment back to a working condition for you to get home.” 

Looking for a branch near you? With a network of 200-plus locations across the U.S. and Canada, NSM is North America’s largest and most trusted provider of comprehensive mobility solutions including CRT, home and vehicle accessibility, and full-service maintenance and repair. To find a location near you, use our branch locator.

View All Our Road Trip Ready Tips: Tip 1, Tip 2, Tip 3, Tip 4

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Calvan Ferguson believes deeply in the power of a positive attitude. 

“I’ve been blessed in many different ways,” he says. “You name it, and I’ve probably experienced it. And it was probably a positive experience.” 

Calvan, a New York City native, has been cultivating that positive outlook since childhood. Diagnosed with cerebral palsy as a toddler, he’s used a wheelchair for most of his life. Growing up, Calvan says he often felt like a pioneer as his presence in the classroom often helped to educate other students about living with a disability.

“I went to elementary school in Manhattan,” he says. “Back then, you would have regular education and then what they called special ed, and that school kind of blurred the lines, so you had a lot of people being educated in the same classroom. It was such a beautiful thing because I didn’t feel alone.” 

That feeling didn’t continue into middle school, when Calvan felt excluded from class field trips that didn’t account for wheelchair users. 

“I don’t like to hold grudges, but there are some things that are hard to forget,” he says. “These field trips were designed for students who had an able, walking body and were not accessible, so I had to stay back and do extra work. Field trips are supposed to open up your horizons and inspire you, but unfortunately that’s sometimes what you get when you pioneer something.” 

Eventually, Calvan completed high school, but says his schooling was often interrupted by surgeries to treat his condition. It was after one of those surgeries—Calvan estimates he’s had about 10 over the course of his lifetime—that he met the woman who would become his wife, Jasmine, who was also recovering from surgery in the hospital. 

“She got discharged, and I thought, ‘I’m never going to see her again,’” Calvan recalled. “But she would call me and she would come on her free Saturdays to see me in the hospital. It really meant a lot to me because it defied everything I thought I knew about having a girlfriend or a wife.” 

Calvan and Jasmine, who also uses complex rehabilitation technology (CRT) equipment for mobility, have now been married for seven years and are the parents of two children. He describes their life together as “countless dates and getting on a lot of peoples’ nerves with accessibility.” 

“You know, life is hard,” Calvan says. “But it’s a little bit better if you have somebody to take the bumps with you.” 

These days, Jasmine works from home full-time, while Calvan is searching for a full-time job. For now, Calvan’s made it his job to look for employment, spending a significant amount of time each day looking for his next role. 

“I feel like I’m the busiest unemployed person in the world,” he says—and he’s not wrong. After helping get his kids ready for school, Calvan drops them off at school, often running errands like running to the supermarket or stopping at the pharmacy, before returning home to continue his job search. 

Around 2 p.m., Calvan is usually headed back to school to pick up his kids for the day, before returning home to work on homework, eat dinner and enjoy time together as a family. On Sundays, Calvan serves on the audio/visual team at his church, preparing microphones and monitoring sound levels for the church service. 

The Fergusons rely heavily on Access-A-Ride and public transportation to get around the city—their weekly trip to church involves two buses and a train—and Calvan hopes his family’s example creates greater visibility and appreciation for people living with disabilities. 

“This is the time,” he says. “Let’s get out of the house and get out on the streets. Let’s get on peoples’ nerves. Some people may feel inconvenienced [by people in wheelchairs] but you never know who you might inspire. As a parent, I get to show my kids what it really means to overcome obstacles. 

“So, whatever it is in your life that’s stopping you from growing or maturing, don’t let it stop you,” Calvan continues. “One day, you’ll look back and see how it made a difference, and that’s what I’m hoping to build: a world my kids can live and thrive in.”

To learn more about Calvan’s life, watch his “Day in My Life” video.

The post A Day in My Life: Calvan Ferguson appeared first on NSM — National Seating & Mobility.

As a CRT user, planning for a road trip also means developing of plan of action for any potential problems you might run into during your trip. Avid travelers Kerri Knudson and Chad Waligura offer advice about what to pack, tools that can make traveling easier and what to do if something goes wrong with your chair. 

Tip 3: Be prepared for problems. 

“I always travel with my shower chair,” Waligura says. “I never count on a roll-in shower. Always take your basic essentials, like cathing supplies, spare tubes for tires, a hand pump, some tools.” 

Waligura often takes solo road trips and says one of the problems he’s had to solve is how to get gas without help. 

“Sometimes gas pumps are raised up on a high curb that I can’t reach,” he says. “So sometimes, you have to wait and ask someone to help you.” 

Since sliding a card can be difficult for someone with limited mobility, Waligura relies on an assistive card gripper made by Abilitease Adaptive, that helps him pay at gas pumps as well as use key cards in hotels.

Problem-solving aside, Knudson and Waligura say the most important thing is to get out there and enjoy yourself. 

“Go with the flow if you’re going to travel a lot,” Waligura says. “Be able to talk with people and ask for help. Traveling is really fun, and it’s so empowering when you figure out how to do it. 

“There have been many times when I’ve asked myself ‘Do I not want to go because of my disability?’” Waligura continues. “And if the answer is yes then I have to go.”

“A lot of times, people with different abilities are afraid to try something they’ve never done or seen,” Knudson says. “But I can tell you that some of the best experiences of my life have been the moments where I’ve said, ‘OK, I’ll give it a try. I’ll go.’” 

View All Our Road Trip Ready Tips: Tip 1, Tip 2, Tip 3, Tip 4

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Road trips are a fun way to explore America, but for CRT users, they take planning and forethought. In the second installment of our Road Trip Ready series, CRT users Kerri Knudson and Chad Waligura talk about the importance of researching your destination, considering your transportation needs and having a plan in case of car trouble. 

Tip 2: Do your research. 

“I typically consider where I’m going to stay and what I want to do in advance, especially if I’m traveling somewhere I’ve never been before,” Knudson says. “If I don’t know the city well, I’ll do some research and look at photos. Do I see ramps? Am I seeing mostly cobblestone or smooth roads?” 

Since Knudson uses both a manual and a powerchair, knowing the type of terrain she’ll encounter on her trip helps determine what mobility equipment she brings with her. If she’s planning to use public transportation, Knudson investigates ahead of time to learn more. 

“When we’re planning a trip to New York, we use the subway,” Knudson says. “All of their stops have a handicap placard that lets you know if this is a wheelchair accessible stop or not. There are very clear signs in New York about where to go to find the accessible entrance to the subway. I look for those kinds of things in advance.” 

If you’re renting a vehicle, she recommends making your reservation as soon as possible and asking a few questions in advance. 

“I need hand controls in a rental car, and I can use my manual chair in a rental car no problem,” she says. “But it’s important to know what kind of car they use for their hand-control vehicles because of how I need to transfer and how many days in advance I need to schedule that.” 

That time frame differs according to the car rental company and the location, Knudson says, ranging from 24 hours at major locations to 48 hours or even a week’s notice. Best practice: make your reservation as early as possible. 

Waligura also suggests having a plan for car trouble or delays, such as having AAA or researching who can help in case of an issue, such as the Highway Patrol or other organizations as well as friends or acquaintances along your route. 

“I have friends scattered out across the country, so if I need something, I can call them,” he says.

View All Our Road Trip Ready Tips: Tip 1, Tip 2, Tip 3, Tip 4

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