Consumer Reports

Products and techniques

There is a huge range of adaptations to make using your car easier.

Getting in and out

If your car key is small, fit a chunky holder; £5 from general aids suppliers.

A chunky key holder

Having the seat runners extended will give you more space to get in and out. It may be possible to have an existing seat converted - to be higher, made height adjustable, swivel or to be powered. Costs start at about £800 from adaptation firms.

If swivelling helps, there are turning cushions (mostly between £20 and £80 from general aids suppliers) and swivel seats, mostly from £850 upwards, from adaptation firms. To get in,sit first then turn and bring your legs in, doing the reverse to get out.

Wheelchair users

If you have a manual wheelchair, you may be able to lift it into the back of the car and walk the few steps to the seats. However if you can't, there is a range of devices and techniques for getting you and the wheelchair into your car. See:

 

next page: Primary controls