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Tune in and keep updated on trending wheelchair and other mobility solutions and topics!

Crafting the life you love

Crafting the life you love

15/12/2021

I am Sara. I am from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in the United States. I am a daughter, aunt, sister, friend and professional. I sufferfrom Osteogenesis Imperfecta, a disease of the bones that makes them brittle. My mantra is “Design the life that I love."

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Sunrise Medical on WIN News

Sunrise Medical on WIN News

25/09/2020

Recently, WIN News Shepparton produced a story on our delivery of wheelchairs to the Rolla Gators (a Wheelchair Basketball Club from Victoria), this was through our wonderful partnership with Paralympics Australia! 

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Hannah Dodd’s Journey

Hannah Dodd’s Journey

16/09/2020

Through the lens of her dual-sporting ventures, Hannah Dodd gave her perspective on young athletes starting out in wheelchair sports, dealing with the NDIS and gaining access to her first wheelchair.She also spoke about the impact of COVID on her training and preparation for the recently postponed 2021 Paralympic Games.

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5 essential tips for the correct maintenance of your electric wheelchair batteries

5 essential tips for the correct maintenance of your electric wheelchair batteries

15/05/2020

Over the past few years, battery technology has come a long way. However, some of the advice provided regarding the maintenance of electric wheelchair batteries has not made great progress. This has led to a series of confusing and sometimes contradictory instructions about the "best" way to take care of batteries. In this article we will clear up some of these myths and legends and give you 5 tips for you to follow. During confinement we do not make intensive use of the chairs, so it is essential to take proper care of the batteries to prevent them from becoming damaged by disuse.

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5 essential tips for the correct maintenance of your electric wheelchair batteries

5 essential tips for the correct maintenance of your electric wheelchair batteries

29/04/2020

Over the past few years, battery technology has come a long way. However, some of the advice provided regarding the maintenance of electric wheelchair batteries has not made great progress. This has led to a series of confusing and sometimes contradictory instructions about the "best" way to take care of batteries. In this article we will clear up some of these myths and legends and give you 5 tips for you to follow. During holidays we do not make intensive use of our power chairs (always when you are using you manual wheelchair for travel), so it is essential to take proper care of the batteries to prevent them from becoming damaged by disuse.

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Adapted Winter Activities: Enjoying the Snow and Mountains

Adapted Winter Activities: Enjoying the Snow and Mountains

24/04/2020

What better way to make the most of the cooler months than to set out on a snowy adventure? Winter sporting activities can be a lot of fun, and they’re a great way to stay active. Many winter activities can be difficult for people with disabilities. Luckily, there are adaptive options that can help to make them more accessible.

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COVID-19 Tips for wheelchair users

COVID-19 Tips for wheelchair users

21/04/2020

Greetings from Beneficial Designs. My name is Peter Axelson. I am a wheelchair user, designer, and engineer, and I am reaching out today with important information regarding COVID-19 precautions to be taken by wheelchair users.

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Resources for Dependent Care

Resources for Dependent Care

9/03/2020

The care of dependent people is an important responsibility. This kind of care is usually carried out by professional carers or family members, who assist their dependent care recipients with a wide range of day to day tasks.   Carers should aim to provide necessary physical, mental, and emotional assistance to their care recipients. Carers may help with health, personal care, and social routines, and they may also be involved in identifying products, tools, programs, and resources that could help their dependents.  

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Useful Resources for Freelancers with Disabilities

Useful Resources for Freelancers with Disabilities

2/03/2020

For people with disabilities, freelance work often provides an excellent solution to many of the difficulties associated with traditional work environments. Freelance work is exciting and accessible, and there are many different kinds of freelance work that people with disabilities can become involved with.  

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Adventure Sports for People with Disabilities

Adventure Sports for People with Disabilities

17/02/2020

Adventure sports are a lot of fun, but people with disability usually assume that they are inaccessible. While many adventure sports do pose access challenges, there are a number of adapted adventures sports and providers available that help make adventure sports accessible.  

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Travelling by Train as a Wheelchair User

Travelling by Train as a Wheelchair User

10/02/2020

Travel is an important part of life, and train travel is increasingly becoming a preferred mode of transportation for many people. Train travel is much faster than travel by road, and with petrol prices rising, it’s usually much more affordable. And in today’s climate-aware world, many are looking to public transport as an option for reducing carbon emissions.   But for people with disabilities, access requirements can often make travelling by train difficult. In the past, limited wheelchair seating space, narrow walkways and corridors, inadequate adapted bathrooms, and poor access to lifts have been barriers to disability-friendly train travel and have seemed to promote exclusion.  

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How the IoT Revolution Can Help People with Disabilities

How the IoT Revolution Can Help People with Disabilities

3/02/2020

The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to the ways in which modern life connects. In today’s world, most things connect, in some way, to the internet. This means that data can be collected and exchanged in responsive ways, and technology can serve the population like never before.   IoT technologies provide a range of solutions to common problems faced by members of the popular, and they can be particularly helpful for users with disabilities, enabling new and innovative access and independence solutions.  

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Google Maps is Embracing an Accessible Future

Google Maps is Embracing an Accessible Future

27/01/2020

If the goal of technology is to make the world an easier place to live in, accessibility is an important priority for tech developers. As new technologies focus on and address accessibility issues, access inclusion is becoming a much more common reality, and overall inclusive practice is becoming a more widely accepted social norm.  

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Accessibility at Music Festivals

Accessibility at Music Festivals

20/01/2020

Music festivals are among the most popular entertainment events in cities all around the world, particularly when the weather is warm. Large groups of people gather, sometimes for several days at a time, to enjoy music by a range of artists and across a range of genres.  

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The Benefits of Meditation for People with Disabilities

The Benefits of Meditation for People with Disabilities

20/01/2020

In a fast-paced and stressed out world, meditation is becoming more and more popular, and for good reason.   Meditation can help people to improve self-awareness and esteem and reduce stress, anxiety, and aggression. Many people find that practising meditation helps with mood, focus, and self-compassion, and that it can have a positive effect on relationships, sleep, and dietary habits.  

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The Importance of Physical Activity for Children With Disabilities

The Importance of Physical Activity for Children With Disabilities

3/12/2019

Exercise is an important part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and is incredibly beneficial to physical and mental wellbeing. Sometimes, children with disabilities find certain types of exercise difficult or disability-exclusive, but there are options that make physical activity accessible (and fun) for children of all ages and abilities. With the help of adaptive sports and activities, children with disabilities can be included in exercise and can reap the social, emotional, and physiological rewards of an active lifestyle.

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Making Cinemas Accessible

Making Cinemas Accessible

19/11/2019

Going to the cinema to see a film is not usually considered an essential experience, but staying up to date with current entertainment trends is actually an important part of social life and community participation. While many able-bodied movie-goers take their ability to access cinema services for granted, people with disabilities are frequently faced with barriers to inclusion in the cinema environment. It’s important that these are addressed so that movies can be enjoyed by all.

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Disability on Film

Disability on Film

12/11/2019

In today’s media industry, diversity and inclusion are hot topics, but unfortunately, disability representation is still largely forgotten when it comes to Hollywood’s biggest blockbusters. While disability increasingly features in the plots of up and coming new films, able-bodied actors are disproportionately cast to play these roles. Entertainment has a long way to go in the fight for positive disability representation and inclusion of actors with lived experiences of disability.

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Water Sports for People with Disabilities

Water Sports for People with Disabilities

5/11/2019

Water sports are a great way to keep active and have fun. While some water sports may be inaccessible for people with disabilities, many of them can be adapted to be more inclusive. When necessary accommodations are provided, water-based sports can be among the best exercise options for people with disabilities. These are some of the best disability-friendly water sport options.

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Occupational Therapy for People With Disabilities

Occupational Therapy for People With Disabilities

24/09/2019

Occupational therapy is an important part of many disability and illness treatment protocols. Occupational therapy focusses on enhancing independence and capacity for everyday activities. It can help people with physical, sensory, or cognitive disabilities to find solutions to access and task limitations, improving their ability to take part in activities necessary to day-to-day life, and ultimately helping to improve their quality of life.

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Disability Dating Myths

Disability Dating Myths

17/09/2019

The disability world is full of romance myths, some of which can be incredibly disheartening for members of the disability community, and when assumptions are particularly destructive, they can actually perpetuate ableism.Despite common misconceptions, negative stereotypes, and ableist assumptions, people with disabilities fall in love every day. Dating with disability is possible; disability can be part of a happily ever after. These are some of the most common disability dating myths and the facts that prove them wrong.

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Driver’s Licence and Disability: How to Get Yours

Driver’s Licence and Disability: How to Get Yours

13/09/2019

Driving is an important part of life, enabling people to access locations that may be difficult to reach using other modes of transport. For people with disabilities, car travel is often particularly important. Driving enables people with disabilities to maintain their independence. Drivers are able to control and manipulate the accessibility of their own cars, and this is often preferable to public transport, which is often plagued by inaccessible features and non-inclusive facilities that are beyond individual control. 

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Summer Plans for People With Disabilities

Summer Plans for People With Disabilities

9/09/2019

Long days, warm nights, and a world of opportunity! Summer days of poolside fun and sunshine bliss are all too wonderful. For people with disabilities, making sure that activities are accessible and inclusive is a must. These are some of Australia’s best summer activities for people with disabilities.

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Importance of Adapted Cycling to Disabled Individuals

Importance of Adapted Cycling to Disabled Individuals

2/09/2019

Adapted cycling makes the hobby of cycling accessible to all people regardless of the challenges they face in the world. There are various disability cycles which suit different people with health, physical and learning disabilities. There are several cycling bikes which are modifiable to suit your disability requirements.

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Renovating an Accessible Bathroom

Renovating an Accessible Bathroom

31/08/2019

Accessible, disability inclusive bathrooms are a necessity for hygiene, dignity andindependence. In a world of tricky building regulations and confusing floor plans, what should you consider before taking on a bathroom renovation project?

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Spasticity: A multidisciplinary disorder

Spasticity: A multidisciplinary disorder

2/08/2019

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with spasticity, it is important to gain a comprehensive understanding of the disorder and its impacts. Knowing the causes and effects of spasticity can give insight into treatment options and will improve your ability to manage the effects of the condition.

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Degree of Disability

Degree of Disability

23/07/2019

The World Health Organizationdefines disability as a condition that restricts a person from undertaking or performing everyday activity normally. While physical disability might be the most common type, the category of disabilities is broad. It includes sensory, neurological, cognitive, intellectual and psychiatric disabilities.

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Adapted Camping in Australia and New Zealand

Adapted Camping in Australia and New Zealand

26/06/2019

Ah, to kick back under the stars and admire the great outdoors! Camping is hugely popular around the world as a way for busy people to relax, recuperate and get back to nature. In Australia and New Zealand, where landscapes are especially beautiful, there really is nothing better than switching off from the technology that punctuates everyday life and just enjoying the environment. Unfortunately, finding campsites and holiday deals with good disability access can be tricky. Here are some of the best spots:

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Applying for a Disability Parking Space

Applying for a Disability Parking Space

19/06/2019

Transport is an important part of life and independence. For people who live with disabilities, access can sometimes be a struggle. The Australian Disability Parking Scheme (ADPS) includes an Australian Disability Parking Permit, which is a nationally recognised program designed to measure levels of physical disability against consistent eligibility criteria and reduce barriers to travel and mobility for members of the disability community.

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Disability Representation Among Social Influencers

Disability Representation Among Social Influencers

11/06/2019

In a world where to be able-bodied is to be accepted as a member of the social majority, positive disability representation can be hard to come by. Often used in the context of humour, pity, innocence or inspiration, disabilitybecomes a repetitive stereotype as the media miss opportunities for inclusion and normalisation.

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Adapted Fencing

Adapted Fencing

4/06/2019

Challenging and competitive, adapted fencing is a much-loved Paralympic sport, requiring precision, technique, and physical strength. Like traditional fencing, adapted fencing, which requires that athletes compete from their wheelchairs, is focussed on reflex and agility skills.

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Boccia: What Is It and How Can You Play?

Boccia: What Is It and How Can You Play?

29/05/2019

Making its Paralympic debut way back in 1984, Boccia is renowned for its accessibility and is fast becoming one of the most popular Paralympic sports. Unique in that it is one of just two Paralympic sports without an Olympic counterpart, Boccia is precise, competitive and wonderfullyinclusive.

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Inclusive Plans for the Whole Family

Inclusive Plans for the Whole Family

22/05/2019

When a member of a family lives with disabilities, fun and inclusive activities are a must! From zoos to fun parks, museums to movies, Australia has so much on offer! These are some of the country’s best inclusive spots for family fun:

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Wheelchair Accessible Outdoor Exhibitions and Activities

Wheelchair Accessible Outdoor Exhibitions and Activities

15/04/2019

Outdoor exhibitions are a great way to take in Australia’s culture, beauty, and rich sense of community. At some of these events, wheelchair access can be a little tricky. Luckily, Australia is moving quickly towards an inclusive future and is beginning to develop accessibility solutions that make exhibitions wheelchair-friendly. With plenty on offer, from art and music to sport and gardens, these are some of the bestwheelchair accessible outdoor exhibitions in Australia:

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Navigating University with a Disability

Navigating University with a Disability

26/02/2019

Starting to study at university is an exciting, formative step for all students. Free from the limitations of childhood and the strict structure of high school, to begin studying at university is an opportunity to take control of one’s own education and future.

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How to Talk to Children About Disability

How to Talk to Children About Disability

14/02/2019

As adults, it is our privilege and responsibility to teach our children about the world and the way in which it works. Some lessons seem to come more naturally than others. “Don’t touch the hotplate” and “look before you cross the road” balance readily on the tips of our tongues.

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Tax Benefits for People with Disabilities

Tax Benefits for People with Disabilities

8/01/2019

Only two things are certain in life - and taxes are one of them!Come July each year, people across Australia are scrambling to lodge their tax returns. Although the Australian Tax Office (ATO) provides a quick guide to the offsets you can claim on their website, it can be a puzzle trying to piece together all the different deductions and benefits you might be entitled to.

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Adapted Golf: A Sport “Fore” Everyone

Adapted Golf: A Sport “Fore” Everyone

18/12/2018

Golf is a wonderfully social sport for people of virtually all ages and physical abilities. One of the core aspects of the sport is its unique handicapping system, which is a calculated measure of players' individual abilities to compete on equitable terms. This system has, in turn, leant itself to the development of adapted golf for players with disabilities.

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Language and Equality for People with Disabilities

Language and Equality for People with Disabilities

7/12/2018

The words we use in everyday conversation have the undeniable ability to either empower or oppress others. If we use positive words to describe people, we can help to foster their sense of pride, identity, and purpose. But, if we use derogatory words, like ableist slurs, we can cause the opposite effect even if we do not mean to.

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Adapted parks for children with disabilities

Adapted parks for children with disabilities

22/11/2018

Parks are the centre-point of our local communities. They’re often our go-to venues for birthday parties, get-togethers,BBQs, and sunny Saturday afternoons, so it’s important that they are inclusive to all of our family members.

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Music Therapy For People With Disabilities

Music Therapy For People With Disabilities

15/11/2018

Music has a beautiful power to move us, uplift our moods, motivate us, and connect us with our friends and family. It helps us to communicate and express our feelings, and to understand the world and people around us with a new level of depth. Songs and rhythms not only entertain and delight us; there is scientific evidence that certain beats can increase mental wellness, reduce pain, and even improveour sleep.

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Australian Scholarships for Students with Disabilities

Australian Scholarships for Students with Disabilities

30/10/2018

Going to university is a rite of passage for many Australian students. It’s a time of adventure and growth, but it can also bring with it a burden of financial worry and pressure. Even with Australia’s extensive HECS-HELP education loans scheme, uni life is expensive - especially for people with disabilities and chronic illnesses. Education itself is a costly venture. When you add ongoing healthcare and mobility equipment expenses, it can seem impossible to afford a degree or PhD.

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Animal-Assisted Therapy in Australia

Animal-Assisted Therapy in Australia

24/10/2018

Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) is a psychotherapy treatment based upon building a bond with an animal through interaction and play. Due to its flexible nature, AAT is suitable for both adults and children with almost any kind of disability, mental illness, autism spectrum disorder, or chronic illness. It can also be effective in addiction recovery, and for patients who would otherwise benefit from the emotional support an animal can offer.

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The Best Handbike Routes in Australia

The Best Handbike Routes in Australia

18/10/2018

Handbiking is quickly gaining traction as one of thetop leisure sports of choice amongst the Australian disability community. A handbike, also known as a handcycle or arm bike, is an adapted tricycle which is powered using the arms rather than the legs. Handbikes feature two large rear wheels and one steerable front wheel which is controlled by the rider via a set of handlebars. The pedals on a handbike are typically attached as part of the steering mechanism, and the rider rotates them with their hands and arms in order to propel the cycle forward.

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Parenting from a Wheelchair

Parenting from a Wheelchair

10/10/2018

“What it’s like to be a parent: it’s one of the hardest things you’ll ever do, but in exchange, it teaches you the meaning of unconditional love.” - Nicholas Sparks.Parenthood is often embraced as one of the most rewarding experiences life has to offer, but almost every parent would agree that it is also one of the most challenging. For wheelchair users, raising a family brings an entirely new and unique set of challenges. But, with a little creative thinking and planning, many of these hurdles can be overcome with ease.

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Accessible Activities for Children with Disabilities

Accessible Activities for Children with Disabilities

27/09/2018

An adventurous heart and playful soul are the core elements of being a child. Having a disability should never preclude going on an adventure, but it may need to be adapted slightly in order to include your child’s wheelchair as well. For children, animportant part of their learning and development is to play and bond with family and friends through exciting activities and quality time spent together.

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Yoga Positions for Wheelchair Users

Yoga Positions for Wheelchair Users

18/09/2018

Yoga is a spiritual and physical discipline celebrated for its positive influence over health, pain relief, and relaxation. Practicing yoga is beneficial for people of all abilities, body types, and fitness levels. It is credited for reducing aches and pains, and promoting general wellbeing and positive mental health.Yoga is a very adaptable exercise, and can be easily practiced from a seated position or otherwise modified to your needs. Because of this, it is highly suitable for wheelchair users and other people with disabilities. There are numerous adapted yoga positions which can be incorporated into the physical therapy or exercise routines of people with disabilities.

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YouTubers Who Are Changing the Conversation About Disability

YouTubers Who Are Changing the Conversation About Disability

22/08/2018

Since its conception in early 2005, YouTube has been pushing the limits of conventional media and handing the proverbial microphone to grassroots creators around the globe. What was once a humble sharing platform for home videos and movie trailers has now given way to a world-stage for passionate people to document their experience of life.YouTube is also a space for activism, education, and social connection. Entire micro-communities can, and often do, blossom in the comments section of a video, and viewers often credit content creators for making them feel less alone in their experiences.

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The Benefits of a Seat Elevation System

The Benefits of a Seat Elevation System

10/07/2018

Seat elevation is a key accessibility element for power wheelchairs, but it is often forsaken in the design process. Although it is widely viewed as a luxury add-on, vertical elevation has a huge potential to increase users’ independence and quality of life.However, this type of design innovation also presents an abundance of personalisation options, so it is vital that potential buyers select a seat elevation system which meets their specific needs.

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Competitive Wheelchair Tennis in Australia

Competitive Wheelchair Tennis in Australia

4/07/2018

Tennis is a beloved sport in Australia, both as a hobby and on the professional circuit. Our prestigious national competitions, such as the Australian Open, draw crowds of avid tennis enthusiasts and casual fans alike to celebrate the successes of the Australian sporting community.According to Tennis Australia, athletes are allowed two bounces of the ball, but otherwise, the game remains much the same as its non-adapted counterpart. The vast majority of our national tennis competitions now include adapted categories, but there is also an entire wheelchair tennis circuit of its own in Australia.

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Accessible Australian Nature Trails

Accessible Australian Nature Trails

26/06/2018

Australia's stunning landscapes inspire awe in the hearts of locals and world travellers alike. From the Flinders Ranges to the Kimberley, there is a never-ending world of beauty to explore and fall in love with in our great outdoors.National Tree Day on July 29, 2018, presents an unmissable opportunity to spend some time with Mother Nature herself, enjoying the best accessible nature trails our gorgeous country has to offer.In honor of the occasion, we have compiled a list featuring some of the best nature trails and outdoor recreation areas accessible to wheelchair users and people with disabilities in each state.

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Disability Support Organisations in Australia

Disability Support Organisations in Australia

19/06/2018

A strong support network is an vital part of living a rich and fulfilling life for any individual, and it is particularly essential when facing the challenges of disability and illness.There are hundreds of organisations across Australia that passionately advocate for and serve the needs of people with disabilities. The services provided by these groups vary from social support and daily living assistance, to skills-based learning and everything in between. There are also many groups that provide support and advice for carers, friends, and family members, as well as education and training for professionals who work in the disability industry.

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Adapted Swimming: a Celebrated Sport

Adapted Swimming: a Celebrated Sport

5/06/2018

Adapted swimming is a versatile sport which boasts a variety of therapeutic benefits for people with disabilities. With a few small changes, pools can be made accessible to allow swimmers from all walks of life to take part in an all-body workout with little to no strain, impact, or pain.

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Finding the Right Sports Wheelchair or Hand Bike

Finding the Right Sports Wheelchair or Hand Bike

16/05/2018

Wheelchairs are a doorway to the world of adaptive sports and fitness for many people with disabilities, and just like any other athletic gear, individual sporting disciplines demand specific features. For this reason, many sports-focused wheelchairs can be personally-tailored to suit the individual and the activity. Such adaptations can include making wheelchairs lighter and more aerodynamic for speed, reinforcing frames for stability, and even adding attachmentswith which to carry sporting accessories.

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Tuk Tuk Diaries

Tuk Tuk Diaries

9/05/2018

I am an intrepid adventurer who has osteogenesis imperfecta - which means that my bones are brittle and break easily, and often for no clear reason. Osteogenesis imperfecta is a genetic disease that affects how my body produces collagen, the protein that helps to strengthen bones. Because of this, I use a wheelchair to help me get around.

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Tips and Advice for Parents of Children with Disabilities

Tips and Advice for Parents of Children with Disabilities

2/05/2018

It’s easy to understand why the prospect of raising children can seem daunting. However, if your child has a physical or mental disability, the future challenges of parenting can seem almost impossible. Although children with disabilities may require extra care and support, don’t forget that you to can seek out emotional assistance from family and friends.

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Eight Meaningful Stories for Children With Disabilities

Eight Meaningful Stories for Children With Disabilities

26/04/2018

Stories and books are a vital part of childhood development and learning. Reading can help children of all abilities to learn about feelings, communication, and the world in which they live. The characters of a favourite book can often feel like old friends you have known for a lifetime, especially if you can relate to their situation or experiences.

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Adaptive Clothing for People with Disabilities

Adaptive Clothing for People with Disabilities

17/04/2018

Clothing and fashion can be a unique and fun way to express one’s identity, creativity, style, and even cultural background. The right outfit can help you feel comfortable, confident, and body positive. Although disabilities often are accompanied by a complex range of comfort and safety needs, it’s also important to select clothing that reflects your personality and flaunts your style.

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Online Communities for People with Disabilities and Chronic Illness in Australia

Online Communities for People with Disabilities and Chronic Illness in Australia

28/03/2018

Online forums provide a safe and fun platform for people across the world to come together and share interests and experiences. These virtual clubs allow members to bond with a group of friends who are accessible at any time of the day, from anywhere in the world. Communities like these are especially important for people with disabilities and chronic illnesses. When health problems or mobility limit access to the local community, members can connect with a network of understanding, caring, and supportive online friends.

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Building a Fun and Effective Wheelchair Based Workout

Building a Fun and Effective Wheelchair Based Workout

22/03/2018

Exercise is essential to the overall wellbeing of people from all walks of life and in all life stages. Stretching, cardio, resistance training, and sports each assist in the development and continual improvement of muscle tone, coordination, and day-to-day energy levels. Wheelchair users are no exception to this rule and many experience great benefits to introducing workouts to their daily lives.

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Factors to consider when travelling with a wheelchair on a plane

Factors to consider when travelling with a wheelchair on a plane

13/03/2018

My name is David Smith and I am a Paralympic Champion in Boccia. A consequence of my sporting commitments is that I spend a lot of time travelling in my Quickie QM710 wheelchair. If you’re going on a holiday or planning a weekend away, it’s always worth putting aside the time to brush up on your air traveling knowledge. To keep your next adventure smooth and stress-free, take advantage of my top tips for travelling in an aeroplane with a wheelchair.

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Australian Accessibility Apps

Australian Accessibility Apps

7/03/2018

Everyday, technology evolves in new and exciting ways to assist people in their everyday lives. For people with disabilities, accessibility is not only highly necessarily, but often extremely frustrating to find. Not only has technology made phone apps readily available, but also many developers are using them to create services to assist people with disabilities. Whether you’re searching for assistance with communication, looking for an accessible parking space, or wanting to hire a care team - there’s an app for that!

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Assistance dogs for individuals with disabilities

Assistance dogs for individuals with disabilities

28/02/2018

Given appropriate training, dogs can be an enormous benefit to people with disabilities. With the help of an assistance dog, people with disabilities are better equipped to overcome physical and psychological challenges, helping them lead more fulfilling and more independent lifestyles. If a disability is imposing physical or mental limitations on your independence, an assistance dog could be the key to providing you greater freedom and security.

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Tools of an Active Life: Hand Bikes

Tools of an Active Life: Hand Bikes

20/02/2018

Adapted bikes are a great way to expose people with disabilities to new forms of recreation, exercise, and travel. There’s no shortage of choices when it comes to adapted hand bikes, making it easy for you to choose a model that is suited to your age, fitness and level of ability. Moreover, the four main classes of hand bike – leisure, recreational, competitive sporting, and foot-operated – offer even more options to customise functions and adaptions.

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Easy ways to maintain your posture in a wheelchair

Easy ways to maintain your posture in a wheelchair

14/02/2018

Maintaining good posture in a wheelchair will help you improve your mobility and decrease your risk of long-term health issues. It’s important to remember that the definition for ‘correct posture’ is dependent on the wheelchair user in question. For instance, people with spinal disabilities often cannot sit with a conventional posture, and must thereby maintain the correct posture for their abilities and condition.

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Eight Beautiful Books About People With a Disability

Eight Beautiful Books About People With a Disability

7/02/2018

Books are beloved for their near magical ability to entrance readers and draw us into their vivid worlds. They are an exhilarating method of escapism, causing us to think, feel, and love alongside our favorite characters. Readers often discover stories and characters who resonate with their own lives and are able to draw strength and courage from their plights.

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Maternity and Disability: Debunking the Myths

Maternity and Disability: Debunking the Myths

31/01/2018

The thought of motherhood can leave any first time parent overwhelmed with feelings of anxiety, anticipation, and overwhelming joy. Raising a child is one of the most difficult and rewarding journeys in life, but for women with disabilities maternity can be even more complex.

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Developing Strengths and Skills Through Play

Developing Strengths and Skills Through Play

23/01/2018

Play is a vital part of childhood development which fosters the cognitive, social, emotional and physical wellbeing of a child. With too little stimulation, children not only begin to experience boredom, but they also lack the means to develop many core life skills. Interactive toys and games help to build many of these strengths, but not all are suited to the individual aptitudes of children with disabilities.

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Tips and tricks to help you perform maintenance on your wheelchair

Tips and tricks to help you perform maintenance on your wheelchair

16/01/2018

Regular maintenance of your wheelchair keeps you mobile and ensures that your equipment is performing at the highest level of safety.This post will look at some of the most common issues in wheelchair maintenance and go over our recommendations for the daily, monthly, and annual care for your manual wheelchair. 

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Commonwealth Games

Commonwealth Games

4/12/2017

The upcoming Commonwealth Games will be held in Gold Coast from 4th to 15th April 2018. With more than 6600 athletes from over 70 commonwealth nations and territories expected to take part in the contest, the event will be the largest since the formation of the competition.

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10 Inclusive Movies About Disabilities Worth Watching

10 Inclusive Movies About Disabilities Worth Watching

28/11/2017

Movies about disabilities can not only be a great window into the lives of many people in our diverse society, but they can also be a wonderful source of inspiration. These films often display a dynamic combination of courage, determination, and characters who strive to achieve their goals despite adversity.

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Moulding A Life For You

Moulding A Life For You

21/11/2017

My name is Matt Feeney and I am the cofounder of Adaptive Adventures. In 1988, I suffered a spinal cord injury that left me paralysed from the mid-abdomen down. First and foremost, I am a survivor. Despite my disability, I have become a certified water and snow ski instructor, a decorated hand cyclist and a two-time off-road downhill champion. My dream was, and still is, to inspire others like me to embrace their disability and to enjoy the benefits of outdoor sports for mental and physical wellbeing. One of my proudest moments was being named Colorado’s Adaptive Athletes of the Year.

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How to Play Wheelchair Basketball

How to Play Wheelchair Basketball

14/11/2017

Wheelchair basketball – widely regarded as one of the most beneficialrecreational activities for people with disabilities – is quickly becoming one of the world’s most popular adapted sport. The adapted sport’s popularity is supported by the fact that 75 countries have now established dedicated wheelchair basketball leagues and competitions.

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Clean Water Initiatives and the Almighty Mount Kilimanjaro

Clean Water Initiatives and the Almighty Mount Kilimanjaro

7/11/2017

How would you react if I told you that I climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa, while confined to a wheelchair? I wouldn’t be surprised if you doubted or even disbelieved my claim. I don’t judge or blame you for these doubts. In fact, if you’d asked me if I could accomplish such a feat 5 years ago, I would have told you that it would be impossible with my physical disability – a genetic ailment that left me with no legs below the pelvis.

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Trips for people with disabilities around Australia

Trips for people with disabilities around Australia

31/10/2017

Everyone has the desire of exploring the natural wonders and beautiful sites spread around the world. However, most of these destinations are not accessible. Nonetheless, Australia has made great strides to create barrier-free travel for people with disabilities. The country offers a wide variety of wheelchair-friendly holiday destinations, accommodations, and tours.

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Aids For Paralympic Athletes in Australia

Aids For Paralympic Athletes in Australia

24/10/2017

Paralympic sports provide athletes with disabilityequal opportunities to compete and be successful. Just like a footballer who carefully selects his or her playing boots, Paralympic athletes select their equipment carefully to match their sporting and individual needs, and give them an edge in elite competition. If you decide to participate in adapted sports, whether professionally or recreationally, it’s important that you use the right equipment for your safety and enjoyment, and to give you the best chance of success.

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Sitting Volleyball in Australia

Sitting Volleyball in Australia

17/10/2017

Sitting volleyball was first introduced as a demonstration in the 1976 Toronto Paralympics Games having originated in The Netherlands in 1956. Four years later, The Netherlands introduced it as a competitive sport and it has since gained popularity in over 60 countries worldwide including Australia.As a version of the original 'standing’ volleyball, sitting volleyball is an energetic sport for people with or without physical disabilities. It is classified into two degrees of disabilities, disabled and minimum disability. The court is much smaller than the standing volleyball court measuring 6m x 10m with lowered nets – 1.15m for men and 1.05m for women. 

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Wheelchair Accessories: What You Should Know About Improving Your Mobility

Wheelchair Accessories: What You Should Know About Improving Your Mobility

10/10/2017

Wheelchair accessories are designed to increase comfort, improve your mobility, develop independence and enhance your overall quality of life. However, when it comes to choosing these accessories, the sheer variety can be daunting to some people.Wheelchair accessories can be fitted on all different types of wheelchairs, allowing you to purchase accessories catered to your own needs and preferences. Before you even begin searching for accessories, look at your needs and other users accessories to determine the accessories that will best improve function and optimise your use of your wheelchair.  

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Do you know the 22 adapted summer sports in the Paralympic Games?

Do you know the 22 adapted summer sports in the Paralympic Games?

4/10/2017

The Paralympic Games, widely regarded as the biggest sporting competitionfor people withdisabilities, currently coordinates and organises professional competitions in 22 adapted sporting disciplines. In 2012, the sporting list in the London Paralympic Games was supplemented with horse riding, cycling, rowing, archery, table tennis and sailing. The diverse array of adapted sports grew again in the 2016 Rio Paralympic Games, where para-triathlon and canoeing were added to the program. 

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The Therapeutic Background of Equine Therapy

The Therapeutic Background of Equine Therapy

26/09/2017

Equinetherapy is a assisted type of therapy that involves interactions between patients and horses. It is suitable for many different participants and is commonly used to develop and enrich physical, social and emotional wellbeing. The broad benefits of equine therapy have not gone unnoticed and equine therapy programs are increasingly sought after by people with disabilities. When participating in equine therapy, it’s imperative that professional equestrian therapists are on hand to coordinate and safely guide the session.

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Designing A Life That You Love

Designing A Life That You Love

20/09/2017

My name is Sara, I am a daughter, sister, aunt, friend and professional, living in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. I’m 35 years old and I was born with a brittle bone disease called Osteogenesis Imperfecta, leaving me in a wheelchair for much of my life. However, my condition has never stopped me from living my life to the fullest and embracing my motto: ‘design a life that I love.’ 

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How to Get Outside and Kick-Start an Active Lifestyle

How to Get Outside and Kick-Start an Active Lifestyle

13/09/2017

Maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle can be a challenging task, especially for people with disabilities. There are so many physical and mental benefits that you can gain from maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle. Becoming more active and involved in social group events will positively impact your mental health and improve your social wellbeing. Joining a social group might be an intimidating thought but there are so many activities you can become involved in with people who have similar interests!

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Employment Opportunities for People with Disabilities

Employment Opportunities for People with Disabilities

8/09/2017

According to data from Australia Bureau of Statistics, out of the 2.1 million Australian’s with a disability that had reached working age, only 1 million were employed. Although this number is low (as of 2015), there have been significant developments towards achieving equality in the workplace to enhance the inclusion of people with disabilities in Australia’s workforce.There are a wide range of Australian stakeholders, government programs and resources that provide support to help individuals with disabilities in seeking and maintaining employment. This could include career path investigation, mentoring, skills training and general information on applying for a job.

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Wheelchair Rugby - Not for The Faint of Heart

Wheelchair Rugby - Not for The Faint of Heart

31/08/2017

Wheelchair Rugby – conceived by some courageous men in the 70’s with a basketball and a trash can - was once called Murder Ball.Watching a game, you soon wonder why they changed the name - as specially designed wheelchairs smash into one another. Contact is common and strong.

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Creating an Accessible Society Through Adapted Toys

Creating an Accessible Society Through Adapted Toys

16/08/2017

Whether it’s through structured activities or recreation, play is an essential part of a child’s physical and mental development. Incorporating play into your child’s life will provide a strongdevelopmental foundation, helping refine motor skills and improve their general learning experience. For children with disabilities, it’s doubly important that you are giving your son or daughter the most beneficial playtime resources that match their needs.  Adapted toys are one of the most effective playtime tools, helping your child build their self-esteem and improve their physical capabilities.

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8 Famous People with Disabilities – Overcoming Disability and Following Passions

8 Famous People with Disabilities – Overcoming Disability and Following Passions

10/08/2017

Some famous people are particularly well known for their inspirational lives and accomplishments, something that is especially true for celebrities with disabilities. The individuals in this list have all overcome their disabilities in inspiring ways, emphasizing that disability doesn’t have to be a barrier to your passions. The following 8 people have all made incredible contributions to art, science, music, acting and sport.

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All You Need To Know About Wheelchair Accessible Taxis

All You Need To Know About Wheelchair Accessible Taxis

1/08/2017

In Australia, the number of Wheelchair Accessible Taxi’s has increased over the past 30 years. Increases in consumer demand combined with government legislation and subsidies have meant that these taxis are more accessible for people with disabilities. The number of companies offering wheelchair accessible taxis has increased which have improved accessibility and your ability to get to where you need to be.

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Electric Wheelchair Hockey

Electric Wheelchair Hockey

26/07/2017

Electric Wheelchair Hockey is a fast moving and dynamic adapted sport. It’s commonly known as “Power Hockey” so if you’re curious and want to learn more about Electric Wheelchair Hockey continue reading!Electric Wheelchair Hockey was first started in 1970. It has since become an internationally known sport with a future goal for it to become a Paralympic Sport. Electric Wheelchair Hockey is played on a wooden court with the aim of the game to get the ball across the other team’s goal line.

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Guide to Accessible Beaches in Australia

Guide to Accessible Beaches in Australia

19/07/2017

An accessible beach should provide easier access to the beach for people with disabilities so that anyone can enjoy the beach. There are an increasing amount of beaches in Australia that are becoming accessible for people with disabilities. These beaches have some key features that make them more accessible and encourage peoplewith disabilities to go to the beach which include accessible facilities, transport and infrastructure.  Apart from people with disabilities being in a position to enjoy the beach access, they should be able to get to the beach and water with ease. This article presents a guide to accessible beaches in Australia with special attention to the elements that make a beach accessible.

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How to Get a Disabled Parking Permit

How to Get a Disabled Parking Permit

18/07/2017

Scarcity of parking spaces is always a major problem in most towns and cities, but when you’re disabled, it gets even harder if not almost impossible to find an accessible car space whenever you need it. However, obtaining a disabled parking permit can actually alleviate this struggle.There are reserved parking facilities for disabled people spread out in cities and towns throughout Australia. If you have a disabled parking permit, these parking bays can be a life saver. 

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10 Adapted Sports To Keep You Fit and Healthy

10 Adapted Sports To Keep You Fit and Healthy

10/07/2017

Playing sport gives the body much needed exercise, as well as having a positive effect on mental and emotional development to greatly increase life quality. The increased number of formal and specific associations, federations and regulations for adapted sports make them more appealing to people with disabilities.There is now more access to adapted sports from a beginner level to international competitions. Adapted sports can be played for recreational, competitive, therapeutic or for high performance competition purposes.

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4 Factors Influencing Your Mobility in a Wheelchair

4 Factors Influencing Your Mobility in a Wheelchair

3/07/2017

The manoeuvrability of a wheelchair is dependent upon a variety of mechanical and personalfactors. Your weight and the design of your wheelchair are two of the most important aspects of your mobility, heavily affecting your wheelchair’s speed and manoeuvrability. For instance, a wheelchair’s resistance and bearing are influenced by the friction between the wheel and ground.Another important feature that affects a person’s mobility is the biomechanics of the wheelchair and user. To optimise biomechanical factors, you’ll have to account for the effects of your weight and body shape upon the position and size of the wheels, angle of the wheelchair’s axles and the distance between the front and rear axles. By considering these different factors, you’ll be far more equipped when it comes to choosing your wheelchair and successfully overcoming any mobility problems.  

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Accessible Tourism: Ten Things You Need to Know for Your Next Getaway

Accessible Tourism: Ten Things You Need to Know for Your Next Getaway

26/06/2017

When it comes to travel and weekend getaways, proper pre-planning and preparation can ensure that your hard-earned holiday period is relaxing and therapeutic rather than stressful and monotonous.Accessible tourism is going from strength to strength in the international travel industry and with a little research and determination, you’ll quickly find a place that suits your needs and travel plans.

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Most Accessible Cities Around The World

Most Accessible Cities Around The World

20/06/2017

Travelling overseas for a holiday, sightseeing, or business convention and immersing yourself in different cultures is always an enriching experience, one that broadens and refreshes your perspective of the world. However, as much as overseas travel is a life changing experience, it can present many challenges, from lost luggage to flight delays to bad hotels. For individuals with disabilities, it can present even more challenges.In this article, we’ve narrowed down the best disability-friendly cities around the world. Accessible public transportation, ease of access to hotels and public attractions are some of the main criteria we used to determine a disability-friendly city.

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What You Need to Know About Choosing the Perfect Wheelchair

What You Need to Know About Choosing the Perfect Wheelchair

13/06/2017

Purchasing a brand-new wheelchair is a huge decision and it’s important to make a choice that suits your lifestyle, disability, budget and environment. The enormous range of powered and manual wheelchairs on the market can make buying a wheelchair seem like an overwhelming task. Fortunately, taking the time to do some research can simplify the process.There’s also the option to contact Sunrise Medical and talk with an expert about your configuration requirements and general preferences, to help you pick a wheelchair perfect for you!

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