Getting Around

Having an adapted vehicle makes our lives so much better.

When Mum first became Grandad's carer, he was using crutches and was just about able to get in and out of a car. However, only a few months later, he became unable to move himself without the help of equipment. Meaning that he could not go anywhere that wasn't within walking distance (and accessible in his wheelchair).

As you can imagine, that was extremely restrictive for both Grandad and my parents, especially living in a small town. Luckily, my parents were in a position where they were able to find and purchase an adapted vehicle. They shopped around and realised that some of the smaller models wouldn't work for us as a family, for a number of reasons, so we have a fairly big one. Which is fine, until it comes to squeezing into parking spaces (even disabled ones).

If you watch my parents now, they have the routine down to a tee. Working together to get Grandad up the ramp and safely strapped in. They're particularly efficient in the rain when Grandad asks if they could hurry up because he's getting wet (not seemingly bothered (more likely unaware) that they to are getting wet).

Having the van gives my parents, as Grandad's carers, a sense of freedom. Giving them the opportunity to take Grandad with them to places, rather than missing out or having to find and rely on alternative care. It also means that Grandad's life is more varied and he's included in more family days out than would have been possible without it.

Recently the van has been used to enable Nan to get out and about as well. I think it's been nice for her to know that she isn't stuck in the residential home, that she can still do things with us that she used to.