Wheelchair Friendly

Celebrating International Wheelchair Day in 2019

February 26, 2019 By Susan Hackett Leave a Comment

The first of March is International Wheelchair Day every year, and the ‘international’ part is quite truthful. There are celebrations all around the world, such as in the United States of America, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Australia, among other countries. If you’ve never heard of this celebration, it’s a great time to get involved and promote disability awareness. Further, it is a good reason to celebrate with friends and family. Those who wish to celebrate should look for local events in their area as there may be a local wheelchair-accessible International Wheelchair Day.

What Are the Aims of International Wheelchair Day?

There are a few aims of International Wheelchair Day other than simply the promotion of disability awareness. This day allows those who use wheelchairs to share how wheelchairs have helped them with mobility and taking control of their lives again. There are many positive aspects that a wheelchair can bring to the user, and International Wheelchair Day is a great time to share stories with others. Also, this day is for caregivers, manufacturers, providers, salespeople, and anyone involved with the design, manufacture, and sale of wheelchairs. Their hard work has truly made the world a better place, and they are honored on this day in addition to those who use wheelchairs.

Beyond just disability awareness, International Wheelchair Day also wants to shed light on the fact that many people around the world could use a wheelchair or other medical products to help improve their quality of life, but because of financial or insurance reasons, they are unable to access one. International Wheelchair Day wants to see a world where every person who needs a wheelchair is given access to one.

Quick Facts About Wheelchairs and International Wheelchair Day

International Wheelchair Day was founded in 2008 by a British blogger coined “wheelchair Steve,” with the aims and purposes mentioned previously. In the United States alone, three million people use a wheelchair each day. This number doesn’t include the vast number of children and adults who need a wheelchair but cannot afford one.

The first known wheelchair was constructed by the ancient Greeks, and it was built in approximately 525 AD. One of the first “famous” people to use a wheelchair was King Philip II of Spain. However, these early wheelchairs were not very mobile and he required an assistant to push his chair. The first motorized wheelchairs came about in the 1950s to help disabled World War II veterans. As of 2018, there are many unique wheelchair designs that allow patients to be much more mobile than before.

Disability Awareness and More About Wheelchair Accessories

International Wheelchair Day 2019 celebrates all that there is about wheelchairs and disabilities. Some patients require more than just the wheelchair itself in order to have the best quality of life.

Ramps – Installing ramps in the home is a wonderful way for those in a wheelchair to be independent when it comes to leaving and arriving at their own home.
Eye gaze and AAC devices – Some patients, especially children, who use a wheelchair are nonverbal. Having an augmentative or alternative communication (AAC) device helps the person communicate with the world. Eye gaze devices are also available for those who do not have use of their extremities, allowing them to talk and communicate as well as operate the wheelchair.

One of the many aims of International Wheelchair Day is to bring attention to these other helpful devices as well as the wheelchair itself.

To learn more about how wheelchair accessories and mobility products, such as stair lifts and accessibility ramps, can help improve your quality of life, contact Williams Lift Co. today. We can offer a free estimate for over five different types of ramps, to help you regain control of your independence.

The Basics of Wheelchair Maintenance and Cleaning

February 19, 2019 By Susan Hackett Leave a Comment

Just like any type of vehicle or object on wheels, wheelchair maintenance and cleaning is important for several reasons. Most importantly, regular wheelchair cleaning keeps the chair in top condition. A regular wheelchair inspection of all the moving parts ensures its functionality and usability. Similarly, as to when you wear a uniform to work or dress a certain way for the office, a wheelchair can certainly be part of your attire, so while the wheelchair’s functionality is a priority, you also want to look your best. This can be a tough chore, especially if you travel with your wheelchair or don’t have the ability to clean it yourself. Here are a few tips to keep in mind regarding wheelchair maintenance and cleaning that can keep your chair in great shape for years to come.

Wheelchair Maintenance and Cleaning: How to Clean a Wheelchair

Depending on the extent of your disability, you may need a family member, friend, or nurse to perform a regular wheelchair cleaning procedure. In fact, it’s a good idea to have a regular wheelchair cleaning schedule to ensure your chair looks its best and is functioning properly at all times.

As wheelchairs see a lot of use, it’s a good idea to wipe down the back and wheelchair cushion covers once a day with a damp, soapy cloth. Deeper cleaning should be performed at least once per month. All components of the chair are easily cleaned with household cleaners, such as Fantastik or 409. You can also use Armor-All on the metal of the chair to keep it shiny.

During this once-per-month wheelchair cleaning, the chair should also be inspected for visible signs of wear that could be dangerous to the patient. This includes cracks, deep scratches, and dents. If there is damage or parts like fasteners are loose, it should be immediately taken to a reputable wheelchair repair shop.

Important Aspects of Wheelchair Tires and Wheelchair Tire Pressure

Cleaning wheelchair tires and checking wheelchair tire pressure should be done often—in fact, tire pressure should be checked once per week. There are several kinds of tires on wheelchairs, including air-filled and foam-filled. While air-filled tires often give a more comfortable ride, the pressure must be exactly right. Tires with too little air pressure can actually cause damage to the wheel.

Your wheelchair may or may not have spokes on the wheels; if it does have spokes, you can use the same can of Armor All to polish them as you did on the casters above.

Quick-release chairs also have a tendency to get “gunk” (oil, grease, and dirt) embedded in the axles. For optimal performance of your chair and its wheels clean this once per month. You can look for a specialized wheelchair tire cleaner to do the job, or opt for a lightly oiled rag if you need to clean on the spot.

Casters can also pick up much debris from the floor and ground, such as hair and carpet fibers. Once these are embedded in the casters, it may be hard to get them out. The best way to remove hair and fibers is to do so with a pair of tweezers. However, this involves taking off the casters, placing them on a wheelchair wheel cleaning mat, cleaning the axles with wheelchair tire cleaner, using the tweezers, and then replacing the casters. If you have a caregiver or friend to help, this procedure should be performed at least biweekly to keep your wheelchair running as it should.

Occasionally, casters need to be replaced, as they can become loose or rusted, especially in areas that have frequent inclement weather. Two ideas to help combat this problem include wheelchair snow tires and wheelchair tire covers. It solely depends on which is more convenient for you.

Wheelchair Safety

Ideally, when it comes to your wheelchair maintenance, its safety is much more important than aesthetics, so it’s important that you or a friend inspect your wheelchair on a routine basis to make sure everything is safe. A good idea is to have a wheelchair maintenance checklist so you don’t miss any of the important inspection points.

You should also visually inspect your wheelchair before using it for the day, and before disembarking, you should always ensure that brakes are locked.

To learn more about wheelchair maintenance and cleaning, or to learn about products that can help increase your mobility, contact Williams Lift Co. today. With everything from stair lifts to wheelchair ramps, we can help make your life easier.

Advances in New Wheelchair Technology and Healthcare Solutions

February 5, 2019 By Susan Hackett Leave a Comment

Whether you prefer a manual or a motorized wheelchair, there are advances in new wheelchair technology that can help with your overall mobility like never before. Decades ago, being in a wheelchair could be confining, and it was very difficult for many patients who experienced a sudden loss of mobility. As of 2019, new wheelchair technology and streamlined designs can help change your life for the better. Read on to learn a little bit more about wheelchairs and new wheelchair technology that can improve your quality of life.

A Brief History of Old and New Wheelchair Technology

The earliest wheelchair technology dates back to ancient China, where a rock slate was used to help transport those with a disability. Advances in wheelchair technology in future centuries reserved wheelchairs only for royalty, and many of them did not even need one. In 1655, the first wheelchair that is similar to what we know today was invented by a paraplegic watchmaker. From this point, advances in wheelchair technology would take off, and the first truly motorized wheelchair was introduced in the United States in 1933. Since 1970, most wheelchairs (self-propelled and motorized) have an aluminum construction and similar design.

Manual New Wheelchair Technology

Even with all the advancements in new wheelchair technology, manual self-propelled wheelchairs are still the most popular model used today. In part, this is because it gives a person much more control and freedom of movement. While it may be tiring to drive the wheelchair with your hands and arms, people overall like the feeling of control and mobility, and it’s easier to guide the device. Some new wheelchair technology when it comes to manual wheelchairs includes models that fold (which is great for traveling), and two-way wheelchairs, which are specifically designed for those with lower or upper body impairment. Part of a group of innovative wheelchair solutions, this type of chair is adjustable depending on your disability. For example, you can lower, raise, or swivel the seat to get your arms in just the correct position to guide the device. BMX sports wheelchairs also have new wheelchair technology for those who want to ride the chair like a bicycle.

Advancements in Motorized Wheelchairs

There are many advances in wheelchair technology in motorized models. There now is a wheelchair that you can control with your eyes, which is perfect for those who have full-body paralysis. Other wheelchair future technology includes options powered like a Segway, illuminated wheelchairs that can be seen well even at night, and two-seat wheelchairs that actually let you carry a guest with you, which is a great idea for events or other occasions. “Smart” wheelchairs offer wireless capabilities from apps to Bluetooth.

Other Advancements in Technology

Beyond new wheelchair technology, there are other advancements currently available to help make your life easier. Home modifications such as electronic medication dispensers and sensors to alert family members of your activity are proven devices to help you live longer. Accessibility ramps are a must for comfortably going in and out of your home. There are also advancements in accessible clothing, driverless cars, and virtual reality, all put in place to help you live your best life.

If you are in search of new wheelchair technology, products, and services to help increase your mobility, contact Williams Lift Co. today to hear about our accessibility ramps, stair lifts, and other devices. With over 70 years in the mobility products industry, we’re committed to increasing your mobility.

Wheelchair Exercise Equipment

October 11, 2018 By Susan Hackett Leave a Comment

One of the biggest misconceptions out there is that once you are in a wheelchair, you have to give up everything you like, including going to the gym. Wheelchair exercise equipment seems too expensive, too difficult to obtain. There is also a larger question: will the local gym be wheelchair friendly? While it seems like an overwhelming obstacle to get into the gym, with the right wheelchair exercise equipment, you can return to working out.

Wheelchair Exercise Equipment: The Basics

The FES bike is the first thing people think about when they hear the words wheelchair workout equipment.” While many don’t know it under that name, it is recognizable for its place in rehabilitation facilities to maintain leg muscle. It works by placing pads on the legs to stimulate the movement needed to use the bike. It is popular for its therapeutic usages and is becoming more mainstream with gyms across the country.

Wheelchair rollers are another popular wheelchair exercise equipment. A wheelchair roller acts like a treadmill, letting the user roll the chair in place. It boasts the same benefits as the traditional treadmill of cardiovascular and stamina improvement, but wheelchair rollers also allow you to build arm muscle to go longer distances. Users have cited its use as one of the better confidence builders when transitioning to wheelchair life.

Another important basic wheelchair exercise equipment is the therapy resistance band. While it seems like a simple tool, it provides wheelchair users easy access to muscle-building exercises. With different kinds of resistance levels, it can fit every person’s fitness level. The band’s popularity among therapists and bodybuilders makes it one of the best basics for any person looking to strengthen themselves.

Adapting the Gym

So now the question is whether or not you can make wheelchair exercise equipment with what is already available to you at the local gym. Is the space provided ADA-friendly? Will there be a place for you to use the weights without running into anyone?

The answer to some of the questions can be answered with a trip to your local gyms. Looking at how the weight area is configured can give you an idea of what weights you can use. This is also applied to how the resistance machines are set up. The empty classrooms can also be an excellent area to practice wheelchair yoga. When in doubt, you can also call the gym and see if you can speak to the manager for more information on their facilities. Many gyms have successfully adapted regular equipment into wheelchair exercise equipment.

Wheelchair Exercise Equipment: In Conclusion

While daunting at first, there are options out there for people who want to return to their gym-going lifestyles. There are ways to adapt current machines for usage, but there is also wheelchair exercise equipment available to make it possible to regain your independence as well as up your activity levels. Here at Williams Lift, we want to make your life easier when adapting your home for wheelchair usage. Contact us today so we can get you on your way to that next gym session.

How to Choose a Wheelchair Ramp for Stairs

July 31, 2018 By Susan Hackett Leave a Comment

When shopping for a wheelchair ramp for stairs, you’ll quickly realize there is no one-size-fits-all solution. There are many options— so many, in fact, that it may be overwhelming for a first-time buyer. This article will help you decide which is the best option for you.

Choosing the Right Size

The first thing to consider when choosing a wheelchair ramp for stairs is the amount of space you have available. The length of the ramp is usually calculated using a 1 inch to 1 foot (1”:1’) ratio. For example, if the entry point is 10 inches above the ground, then the minimum recommended ramp length is 10 feet. If the entry point needed for a wheelchair ramp for stairs is higher than a few feet, using turns will help to conserve space while keeping the incline at a safe and manageable level.

Choosing the Right Material

The two primary choices for wheelchair ramp material are wood and aluminum. Williams Lifts only carries aluminum ramps and you’ll understand why after I describe the differences between the two types.

Wooden wheelchair ramps are arguably the more aesthetically pleasing between the two because they can be designed to match the exterior of a home. That’s where the benefits end, however, and when personal safety is on the line you don’t want to choose form over function.

The problem with wooden ramps is they’re more difficult to build, more difficult to install, and require more frequent maintenance to prevent the wood from rotting. Not to mention the maximum weight capacity is less compared to aluminum.

Aluminum wheelchair ramps, on the other hand, are easier to install and require less maintenance. Unlike wooden ramps, aluminum ramps can be easily modified and adjusted. They’re also easier to remove, if needed, which is helpful if the user eventually plans to move or sell their house.

Choosing the Right Wheelchair Ramp for Stairs Specifications

In order to ensure safety, it’s important that a wheelchair ramp meets these minimum specifications recommended by the Americans with Disabilities (ADA) Act.

A 5 by 5 foot landing at the top and bottom of the ramp.
A maximum run of 30 feet before a turn or platform.
A minimum width of 36 inches.
Handrails that are at least 34 inches high.

Williams Lifts offers a wide variety of wheelchair ramps for indoor stairs and outdoor stairs, as well as wheelchair ramp installation services. We also offer a portable wheelchair ramp for stairs which require no installation at all.

One of the best ways to ensure you’re making the right choice is to take advantage of our wheelchair ramp for stairs rental service. For an affordable monthly fee and no commitments, you can get a wheelchair ramp in your home today. We rent the same wheelchair ramp models we sell, so if you are satisfied with your selection you can purchase the same model for long-term use.

For more information about wheelchair ramp rentals, please contact us with any questions you may have.

Mobility Assistance Devices for Seniors

April 30, 2018 By Susan Hackett Leave a Comment

Mobility assistance devices help individuals who have difficulty moving about and otherwise enjoying the freedom and independence they once did. Senior mobility aids are used by individuals with disabilities and injuries like cerebral palsy, who may be at increased risk of falling without using an assistive device. Other benefits provided by mobility assistance devices include reduced pain, increased self-confidence, and overall peace of mind.

A wide range of mobility assistance devices are available to meet a variety of needs. In this article, we will go over different types of mobility assistive devices for the elderly and explain the benefits they provide.

Type of Mobility Assistance Devices for the Elderly

Canes

Canes are used by people who have trouble maintaining balance and are at risk of falling. Studies show that 1 in 10 adults over the age of 65 uses a cane. Different types of canes are available depending on the level of assistance needed— ranging from canes with one foot for minimal stability, to canes with four feet for maximum stability. While canes help transmit body weight from the legs to the upper body, it’s important to keep in mind that they place added pressure on the hands and wrists.

Crutches

Like canes, crutches also transfer body weight from the legs to the upper body. However, crutches are mobility assistance devices that are typically used as a short-term solution for people recovering from injuries, while canes are more of a long-term solution. Crutches are placed against the rib cage under the armpits, keeping the user upright as they hold onto a hand grip.

Walkers

While canes and crutches are usually made out of wood, walkers are made up of a solid metal framework. A three-sided metal frame surrounds the user, with four legs on the ground to provide stability and support. The user lifts the walker, places it in front of them, and steps forward. This process is repeated for every step. Some walkers have wheels on each leg for continuous movement.

Wheelchairs

A wheelchair is used when the individual either unable to walk or absolutely cannot put any weight on their lower body. Wheelchairs are either manually propelled by the user pushing the wheels or controlled electrically.

Scooters

A step above a wheelchair is a scooter, which has a seat on top of a platform with as many as 4 or 5 wheels. Scooters are electrically powered with steering wheels to control direction.

Ramps

Individuals with any of the above-listed mobility assistance devices may also benefit from an access ramp. They’re easier to maneuver than steps, and can also help with overcoming thresholds.

Handrails

Individuals with limited mobility can benefit from installing handrails in their home. Handrails are particularly useful in areas a person may have to briefly put down their canes, or move in and out of their wheelchairs— such as bathrooms and the front entrance.

Stair Lifts

Stair lifts provide the ultimate freedom of mobility within one’s own home. They often make the difference between individuals being able to stay in their home versus moving to another residence with one floor. Stair lifts are electrically powered that effortlessly move an individual up and down a flight of stairs while seated.

Stair lifts can make a world of difference to anyone who regularly uses any of the mobility assistance devices included in this list. For more information, please contact us or visit our stair lifts page.

Portable Wheelchair Access Ramps

April 15, 2018 By Susan Hackett Leave a Comment

For the ultimate on-the-go mobility solution, pair a wheelchair with one of our portable wheelchair access ramps. A portable ramp will help ensure you have the equipment needed to overcome thresholds while on the go.

Unfortunately, wheelchair accessibility is not a given everywhere we go. You don’t want to be unprepared in those situations. Arm yourself with one of the best portable wheelchair ramps and reclaim your independence.

Portable wheelchair ramps for homes are an ideal solution for those who have friends or family with accessibility needs. Having a portable ramp on hand means wheelchair accessibility will be available when it’s needed.

Portable wheelchair ramps for steps help an individual to easily navigate thresholds, curbs, and difficult entrances. They’re easy to store, easy to transport, and require absolutely no installation. Portable wheelchair threshold ramps fold up after use and have built-in handles for carrying from one place to another. They can be used both indoors and outdoors, built with safety and traction in mind.

Portable Wheelchair Access Ramps: EZ-Access Suitcase Signature Series

At Williams Lifts we are proud to offer one of the top portable wheelchair access ramps on the market. The Suitcase Signature Series from EZ-Access has several innovative design enhancements, including:

No-pinch, non-protruding, full-length live hinge
Ergonomically designed handles
Extruded tread for superior traction
Aluminum body
800lb weight capacity
Designed for wheelchairs and scooters
Available in 2’-8’ lengths

In addition, you can get a Suitcase Signature portable wheelchair ramp with a platform. These ramps have a self-adjusting bottom transition plate, which allows users to easily move from the ramp onto any surface. On top of these standard features, portable wheelchair access ramps can be outfitted with optional extensions depending on your individual needs. For example, a top lip extension can be added to a suitcase ramp which extends the top lip from 3” to 9”. This allows the ramp to clear the bumper of most SUVs and vans. Please inquire about other optional features if you have a need for something that is not listed here. Unfortunately, we do not carry portable wheelchair ramps with handrails.

With a lifetime warranty and made-in-USA craftsmanship, portable wheelchair ramps from EZ-Access are an investment you only need to make once. However, if you believe you’ll only need a ramp temporarily, we offer plenty of low-cost used portable ramps as well.

Suitcase Signature portable wheelchair ramps from EZ-Access come in three different styles:

Singlefold: A single unit that can be folded over once when not in use.
Singlefold AS: A single unit that can also be separated into two sections. Can be folded over once when not in use.
Trifold AS: Features longer ramp lengths and a unique, three-fold design for greater portability. Can be used as one or two units.

Portable Wheelchair Access Ramps: In Summary

You can depend on Williams Lifts for all your mobility needs. Please inquire about our portable wheelchair ramps. Keep in mind we offer several flexible options for getting you a ramp today, include buying new, buying used, or renting a ramp on a temporary basis. Get the equipment you need to reclaim your independence.

Aging in Place Technology: Aging in Place Home Modifications to Help You Live at Home Longer

January 1, 2018 By Susan Hackett Leave a Comment

Aging in place technology is designed to help seniors stay in their own home as they get older. This is accomplished with a combination of modern day devices as well as aging in place home modifications.

In this article, I will go over several pieces of technology that are key to independent living, as well as the different modifications that can help seniors move through their home without any obstacles.

Aging in Place Technology & Aging in Place Home Modifications

Seniors have greater access to aging in place technology today than ever before. This includes high-tech monitoring systems and personal gadgets that can help seniors live independently. In addition to providing numerous benefits to the individuals using the technology, it also provides peace of mind to family members. Moreover, it’s much more affordable to invest in aging in place technology compared to moving into an assisted living environment.

Here is an overview of some of the key pieces of aging in place technology that every senior should have in their home.

Sensors
Smart sensors can be placed around the home to alert family members and caregivers of a loved one’s activity. So instead of calling dad to check whether he’s been up, had his breakfast, and taken his pills— motion sensors placed in the living room, kitchen, and medicine cabinet can reassure you that everything is ok.

Emergency Pendants
An emergency pendant is a piece of technology, usually worn as a necklace, that can be pressed in case of an emergency. Emergency pendants can be programmed to call either 911 or a family member. With one press of a button, a call is made and either 911 or a family member is alerted that something is wrong.

Electronic Medication Dispensers
An electronic medication dispenser also acts as a medication reminder system. It sets off an alarm when it’s time to take medication, and dispenses exactly what is needed for that time of day. This will help ensure medication is taken as required throughout the day and a dose is never missed.

Video Calls
Internet-connected videos cameras are now as common as telephones. They’re on smartphones, tablets, laptops, and even built into some computer monitors. A video call can be a much more effective way to keep in touch with family members without having to leave the home. Doctors are even seeing patients via video calls these days, which can eliminate another need to leave the house.

Home Modifications by Williams Lifts

Aging in place home modifications refers to the type of products and services Williams Lifts specializes in. Modifications can be made to a senior’s home to help him or her overcome various obstacles. This can include tools such as stair lifts to get up and down stairs easier, or modular ramps for entering and exiting the home in a wheelchair.

Here is a list of different kinds of aging in place home modifications, along with links where you can get more information about them.

In Summary

A combination of aging in place home modifications, and technological devices, can help seniors live comfortably in their own homes well into their old age. For more information about the home modifications offered by Williams Lifts, please request a free brochure or contact us directly.

Choosing the Right Residential Wheelchair Ramp

September 1, 2017 By Susan Hackett Leave a Comment

Careful thought must be put into choosing the right residential wheelchair ramp, because there are many variables to consider. Seeking the assistance of an experienced dealer, like Williams Lifts, can help you make the decision that’s best for your needs.

In this article we will go over the variables you need to take into consideration before purchasing a residential wheelchair ramp, as well as describe the different types of house wheelchair ramps that are available to you. From there, you’ll be on your way to choosing the ramp that’s best for you.

Residential Wheelchair Ramp Length

Ramp length is one of the first things you should take into consideration – not only for your own needs, but to stay within compliance of building codes for wheelchair ramp slope. Keep in mind that building codes do not apply to residential wheelchair ramps, but they do apply to all other types.

Building codes state there should be at least one foot of length for every inch of rise, which is a fairly easy calculation to make. For example, a 10 inch rise should have a 10 foot ramp, and so on.

Although there are no building code requirements for portable ramps, most manufacturers recommend one foot of ramp for every 2 inches of rise. That means a 5 foot ramp with a 10 inch rise should be sufficient for most users.

In all instances, whether the ramp is portable or not, the longer it is the easier it will be to use. Shorter ramps can be a challenge because they will invariably have a steeper slope than longer ramps.

Residential Wheelchair Ramp Weight Capacity

Another variable that is important to a user’s safety is the ramp’s weight capacity. Needless to say, exceeding weight capacity could lead to the ramp giving out and causing an accident.

You must consider all things that add weight to your person while using your wheelchair, and of course the weight of the wheelchair itself.

There is generally not much to worry about when it comes to manual wheelchairs because they usually weigh no more than 50 lbs. Power wheelchairs are the primary concern here.

When it comes to power wheelchairs, the weight of the machine, its weight once batteries are added, and also the weight of the machine once additional features like power tilt or recline are added.

A power wheelchair that’s advertised as weighing 300lbs could weigh as much as 600lbs by the time it’s delivered.

Lastly, you must also consider the weight of any additional items that may be added to your person. This may include heavy clothing, bags, purses, water bottles, etc.

Weight capacity of different ramp types will vary by manufacturer, so make sure you inquire about the maximum capacity before deciding on a wheelchair ramp.

Residential Wheelchair Ramp Types

Residential wheelchair ramp types include:

Threshold ramps
Portable ramps
Tri-fold ramps
Modular ramps
Pathway ramps

Rather than repeating the differences between them here, we encourage you to visit our full write-up about wheelchair ramp types.

Conclusion

Ramp length, weight capacity, and ramp type are the main variables to consider before purchasing a wheelchair ramp. If you need further assistance please contact us or leave a comment below.

Wheelchair Accessible Locations to Explore this Winter in NJ

January 1, 2017 By Susan Hackett Leave a Comment

New Jersey is an excellent wheelchair accessible state, with plenty of locations and attractions built to meet the unique needs of all its visitors. In this post we will go over a few of those attractions, and discuss what there is to do in NJ during the winter months.

Finding the Best Wheelchair Accessible Locations

Finding the best wheelchair accessible locations is challenging at any time of the year. Even more so during winter when the weather is colder, the ground is wetter, and spending time outdoors is less desirable.

Although no one wants to spend their time cooped up inside either. So what we have done is rounded up some of the best wheelchair accessible locations to visit around the city as the weather gets colder.

Best Indoor Locations

New Jersey State Museum
This accessible location is in the state’s capital city of Trenton. It’s easy to spend an afternoon or an entire day exploring the contents of the museum. Its state-of-the-art facility is host to a planetarium, sculptures and photographs, over 12 thousand paintings, cultural history exhibits, and an archaeological exhibit. General admission entry into the museum is free.

Adventure Aquarium
This accessible location located in Camden is formerly known as the New Jersey State Aquarium. It is a for-profit educational entertainment attraction. Visitors to the aquarium can explore nearly 200,000 square feet of sea life and wildlife. Staying open during the winter months, this is an NJ attraction worth keeping on your list for repeat visits. There’s so much to see, you couldn’t possibly do it the first time around.

Liberty Science Center
New Jersey’s largest museum is fully ADA-compliant, which makes this an ideal attraction to add to your list of places to visit in NJ in the winter. Liberty Science Center is an interactive science museum and learning center located in Liberty State Park in Jersey City.

Best Outdoor Locations

Anywhere you go looks a little bit nicer this time of year thanks to the fall colors in the sky, the leaves on the ground, and the minimal amounts of snow tying everything together. New Jersey has many state parks which can be just as well maintained in the winter months as they are in the spring and summer months.

Many locals and tourists alike visit these parks at all times of the year to relax and take in the scenery. Witnessing the change of seasons from summer-to-fall-to-winter in NJ is something that should be experienced at least once in a lifetime.

Conclusion

We find that the more you look for wheelchair accessible locations in NJ, the more you find that it’s harder to come up with locations that do not meet today’s accessibility standards. NJ is an accommodating city, both indoors and outdoors, which is why we have always been proud to do business here. Certainly don’t let the worry of accessibility keep you from enjoying all the city has to offer in the coming seasons.