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RVs for the Disabled
Thousands of travel and outdoor enthusiasts with special needs are recapturing their mobility and having more fun on the road in recreation vehicles. RVs are the ideal way for everyone to experience the open road in convenience, comfort and style, disabled owners say.
The US Census Bureau estimates one-fifth of all Americans suffer from some type of disability. More than a dozen manufacturers and suppliers offer special needs RVs and conversion vans, outfitted with features that make it possible for people with mobility and health concerns to travel freely and comfortably.
Besides standard RV conveniences and amenities from power and plumbing systems to the latest in kitchen appliances and entertainment options, typical accessible RV modifications or accessories include:
- wheelchair lifts or ramps
- ower kitchen counters and cabinets
- widened entrances
- roll-in showers
- conveniently located controls
- longer faucet handles
- roll-under sinks
-
brighter lighting
“The many options for accessorizing and customizing an RV make this form of travel the most suitable and stress-free for those with severe or minor disabilities, “ said Suzanne Mark, an avid RVer and travel consultant. “There are no worries during their travels about such problems as finding an accessible bathroom, lugging suitcases, getting around or through barriers, or keeping their medications cold if necessary.”
Gayle Martinelli, a certified therapeutic recreation specialist, Handicapped Travel Club member and RVing advocate agrees. “RVing is the equal opportunity travel option where no one is precluded. What other mode of travel allows folks to bring their accessibility with them? Accessibility issues that are often encountered in hotels and restaurants are solved with a comfortable traveling ‘home-away-from-home’ that can be thoroughly customized or modified.”
Coupled with widespread advances in RV products for disabled travelers, RV campgrounds have also adapted to meet their needs. Many have wide, level and paved sites for easy use by wheelchairs, walkers or even electric scooters. Campground operators are increasingly offering recreation programs and food services designed to meet the physical and nutritional requirements of their customers. Some campgrounds even provide specialized classes for the disabled in health and fitness, or have medical support on the property. |
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