Don’t let mobility ruin your driving experience
If you suffer from a physical disability or just struggle in general with slight or severe mobility issues, it can be easy to shy away from driving and not feel comfortable doing so. However, with the right vehicle with the right controls and adaptations, you really can achieve independent mobility. Plus, when you feel comfortable in the driving seat, you’ll feel safe in the driving seat, and that’s what this is all about. You need to feel confident in your ability as a driver to enable you to drive effectively and safely. And with a few simple tips and tricks, you can not only see driving as a useful mobility tool but an enjoyable one too…
Stay comfortable at the wheel with Simply mobility
Car Handle
First up, let’s talk about getting in and out of the car! If you suffer from low mobility, you’re recovering from surgery, you’re pregnant or just don’t feel confident getting up and down with ease, then our portable car handle gives you that peace of mind. It’s so easy to use, it’s discreet and will give you the confidence you need to make entry and exit from the car safe and smooth. Check out our video here to learn more.
Mobility Cushion
It can sometimes be very difficult to manoeuvre your body into position for driving and you can feel a lot of strain on your back, hips and knees. If this sounds like you, we really recommend getting a mobility cushion! Our Memory Foam Swivel Cushion is lightweight and portable and fastens onto your seat using the harness. It stays firmly in position at all times, but the ball bearings within the based enable the cushion to swivel a full 360 degrees. This means you can lower yourself onto the seat, then use the swivel cushion to turn into position comfortably and easily. You really will wonder why you never used one before!
Seat Belt Assist
Now, let’s focus on safety. In order for you to drive safely, you need to ensure you’re always wearing a seatbelt. However, if you struggle with arthritis or general pain and stiffness in your arms, shoulders or twisting your spine, just reaching over for your seatbelt can feel like a really tough challenge. So, grab our 2 pack of Seat Belt Assist products. They are super easy to fit with no tools required. They have a convenient handle that attaches to the seatbelt which makes it easier to pull around over you. Just check out our YouTube tutorial here for how to fit and use them.
Steering Aid
Next, let’s take a look at steering. Of course there are different positions you can move your steering wheel to ensure the most comfortable position for your height and seat position, but if you find it difficult holding the shape of the wheel, there are certainly ways to help; like our steering aid. This universal aid fits most makes and models of car. It’s so easy to fit and clamps onto the steering wheel. You can then just hold that to steer your vehicle, ensuring safe and comfortable driving.
Cushions
It doesn’t matter whether you’re heading out for a short journey to the shops, or you’re planning a long road trip throughout the summer, you need to be comfortable. And for that, we have a whole range of cushions to support your whole body. This ensures your muscles can relax into the driving position and you can feel less stiffness when you arrive at your destination. If you find your posture suffers during driving, check out the D-Shape Lumbar Cushion. It naturally improves your posture by supporting your lower back as you sit in the driving seat. Or, for a bit of extra comfort (and luxury!) choose a Heated Cushion. It offers soothing heat treatment for a more intense relief and reduces the stress on your body from sitting in the same position for extended periods of time and fits safely and easily on any fabric or leather seat. Now that’s comfortable, enjoyable driving at its finest!
So, if you suffer from arthritis or any sort of reduced mobility and you’ve been avoiding driving for a while, don’t let mobility concerns stop you from enjoying the independence you deserve. With a few simple steps and tweaks to your car, you really can get out onto the open road with confidence. You’ll know you’re going to be safe, secure and happy in the driving seat, ensuring a dependable driving experience for you and other road users.
For more advice on driving with mobility issues and before you set out on your next journey as a driver, speak to your healthcare provider about any further advice they may have for your specific and unique needs.
