Driving and Leisure

     Driving is a functional activity as well as a leisure activity. Being able to drive benefits those who like exploring and viewing country-sides. There are many assistive technology devices utilized in driving. Some that are highlighted here are bioptics, wheelchair accessibility vehicles (WAVs), and knobs/extensors. Thanks to companies like Infinitec, the utilization of assistive technology is evident with their company mission. These devices enable individuals with many disabilities to stay community mobile (Infinitec, 2010).

     The first device highlighted is the BiOptic Driving system. This driving system is a telescope attachment to a pair of glasses to increase visual acuity. Decreased vision is an issue for many people all over the world. The BiOptic Driving system will now allow people who have low visual acuity to glance into the telescope to increase visual field for safe community mobility. The ability to drive gives meaning back to those with disabilities. The estimated cost for Bioptic lenses is $1950.00 which does not include the price of education and training of this device. The additional cost of about $100 - $200 dollars an hour for 30 or so hours is necessary for training. Low vision is just as important as physical disabilities because they share similar losses (Feinbloom, 2012).

     The most important pro of this system would be having the ability to see farther distances while driving. However, one con of bioptic driving is the decreased attention to surroundings while driving. Safety is a concern, but with BiOptic driving there are some safeguards in place. Education of the system is very important. Being cognitively sound to multitask and manipulate machinery is imperative as well. Individuals using the BiOptic lenses would have the ability to become more community mobile, drive for leisure, and perhaps travel and see what they have always wanted to see in case vision becomes less (Feinbloom, 2012). Those that would benefit from the BiOptic lenses would need to visit their local Optometrist for purchasing and manufacturer details.

   Wheelchair accessibility is of great need for individuals with disabilities. Assistive technology is important when determining what is functional and easy to provide. Companies like Custom Mobility in St. Petersburg, FL enable perfect fit between assistive technology and vehicles. Along with fabrication and personal car modifications, they also sell already customized vehicles. Ramps, door lifts, and wheelchair lifts all add to accessibility. There are some vehicles customized to an individual's needs already on the market. They do not overprice or sell to people who cannot afford them. Most of their vehicles go from $27,900 and up depending on modifications and luxury items. The company at Custom Mobility is called MITS (MITS, 2010). Custom Mobility aims at delivering quality service to its clients and create a comfortable vehicle for community mobility and driving as leisure (CustomMobility, 1990).

   Obviously, these customized vehicles should be operated by individuals with an appropriate cognitive level and be able to operate a vehicle safely. Pricing is the evident con in the merchandise listed here. There is a definite concern with price. This is a big purchase for anyone, but those that are disabled need additional funding sources to supplement the potential income loss. The pro would be that funding is available for many individuals who express need and want for wheelchair accessible vehicles. Community mobility is another pro related to wheelchair accessible vehicles. The ability to move around the community is important for socialization and functional tasks associated with life.

   

   

     Knobs and extensors are important for the actual function of driving. Steering Wheel Turning accessories can be imperative for individuals with specific disabilities. Those with physical disabilities that have full cognitive levels show a need for these devices. The pictures depicted above show a 1,2, and 3 point steering device that enables appropriate steering of a vehicle with relative ease. The extensor is on the key turn aspect that can be controlled with one hand that may be dominant for the user. The Steering Wheel Turning accessories encompass a lot of devices. The main ones are steering and key run accessories (TMN, 2008).

     There is relatively no safety concerns for the driver if devices are installed correctly. The basic Steering Wheel Turner costs $680.00. There are more updated models but with installation and education, the price can be hefty for multiple modifications. The funding for appropriate safety equipment can be further determined by manufacturers like Custom Mobility. The pros would be easy access to vehicle and driving around the community in order to facilitate functional community mobility.

     Manufacturers are all listed below under citations section. Prices are subject to change based on where the individual lives. These prices are based on online pricing and Custom Mobility price list on their website.

Citations

CustomMobility. (1990, January 15). Individual Custom Adaptive Seating. Retrieved July 15, 2012, from Custom Mobility Inc. : http://www.custom-mobility.com/

Feinbloom, W. (2012, March 29). Bioptic Drivers. Retrieved July 15, 2012, from Bioptic Driving Network: http://www.biopticdriving.org/

Infinitec. (2010, January 10). Adaptive Driving. Retrieved July 15, 2012, from Infinitec : http://www.infinitec.org/live/driving/carmods.htm

MITS. (2010, January 23). MITS at Custom Mobility. Retrieved July 15, 2012, from Wheelchair-Vans: http://www.wheelchair-van.com/

TMN. (2008, August 18). Steering Wheel Turning Accessories. Retrieved July 15, 2012, from TMN: http://www.tmn.co.il/eng/Company_Products/Accessory_For_Driving/Steering_Wheel_Turning_Accessories.html

Photos By

Infinitec.org

biopticdriving.org

custom-mobility.com

tmn.co.il

wheelchair-van.com