Daniel and his family are very excited about receiving their Hyundai Staria, lowered floor conversion from Freedom Motors.
Daniel was referred to Driving Well Occupational Therapy to obtain a wheelchair accessible vehicle in May 2023. Daniel had outgrown his specialised car seat where he needed to be physically lifted in and out of his wheelchair and also lifted in and out of his car seat. He needed a wheelchair accessible vehicle to transport him as a passenger in his wheelchair, due to his postural support needs. The vehicle modification was required now, and needed to be suitable in the future as well as he continues grow and develop.
Daniel lives with his parents and three brothers. Previously, they were unable to travel together as a family, as there was insufficient space in their car to transport the whole family of 6 and Daniel’s mobility aid. This restricted Daniel and his family’s ability to access the community together, and limited Daniel’s opportunities for social connection and community participation to home, school and therapy/medical appointments.
Daniel and his family successfully trialled and submitted a NDIS application for vehicle modifications (lowered floor conversion for wheelchair occupant) to their Hyundai Staria, which was subsequently approved by NDIS. This is a mutually beneficial investment long term, as this modified vehicle will be used frequently to facilitate Daniel’s access to his community and is a more cost effective and client-centred support than an additional transportation budget to access Maxi-Taxis where short/ frequent trips are required.
The ability for Daniel to be transported in his own wheelchair accessible vehicle supports his ongoing growth and development by enabling him to:
- Attend therapy and medical appointments to optimise his overall health and specific therapeutic needs
- Having access to both his wheelchair and walker in the community supporting his physical development, muscle strength and gross motor skills, while also managing his fatigue.
- Develop his communication skills through interacting with others in the community
- Supports his play, learning and social skills through meeting and interacting with other children and members of the community.
Simon, Daniel’s father recently hurt his back and is on light duties at present while he recovers. He is exceptionally grateful to have their modified vehicle now to reduce the manual handling demands required to enable Daniel to access the community.
The family recently had their first trip together to the Gold Coast for the day and look forward to travelling to a variety of destinations, including exploring wheelchair accessible parks and venues together as a family.
If you or someone you know wants to know more about wheelchair accessible vehicles or wheelchair occupant travel, contact us at Driving Well Occupational Therapy to find out more.
