Changes in wheelchair design (such as larger tires and lighter overall weight) make it possible for disabled persons to exercise more mobility and control and participate in a greater variety of recreational activities. (CL)

A photographic analysis of racing wheelchairs used by cerebral palsy class four athletes and amputee athletes at the 1984 International Games for the Disabled was undertaken in order to analyze seven wheelchair construction variables in relation to performance outcome, distance raced, and type of disability of the user. (Author/MT)

Twenty-four manufacturers of wheelchairs in the United States, along with one in Canada, are listed with addresses and telephone numbers, including toll-free telephone numbers when available. (PB)

The booklet is intended to help train people with mild mental retardation to drive electric wheelchairs. The systematic training incorporates features of adequate time, stress upon generalization, and a relaxed and secure environment. Lessons are presented on the following skill areas: preparation, starting and stopping, driving straight ahead,…

This guide is intended to assist people with physical disabilities who are wheelchair users and their families in the construction of a barrier-free home. Introductory information notes the importance of specific planning for individual needs and full participation by the homeowner as well as the architect and contractor. Briefly addressed are:…

Two brief fact sheets for people with disabilities provide information on: (1) modifying a trailer to make it accessible for persons with mobility impairments, especially those in wheelchairs, and (2) accessibility considerations for home buyers or home owners with mobility impairments. The first fact sheet identifies inherent problems in…

Illustrates and describes new guidelines, issued by the U.S. Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board, for the design of telephone enclosures for persons in wheelchairs. (MLF)

The University of Maryland at College Park has published a supplemental resource guide for the design of accessible facilities. The guidelines do not supersede applicable federal or state requirements, but make possible control over design solutions and a consistent standard throughout the campus. (Author/MLF)

One of a series of materials developed by Project APT (Administrators, Parents, and Teachers/Assessment, Programing, and Training), a program designed to foster home/school coordination in educational planning and program implementation for severely mentally retarded and/or multiply handicapped students; the booklet provides information on…

The article describes the need for therapeutically designed and prescribed seating systems for cerebral palsied and severely physically handicapped children. Related issues discussed include muscle tone problems, beginning proper positioning early, needs evaluation by parents and clinical team members, and selecting a seating system. (JW)

The article describes the role of the adaptive equipment professional as a team member in the comprehensive clinical evaluation of a disabled child's need for adaptive equipment. These individuals represent companies that sell wheelchairs, seating systems, and other adaptive products. Issues such as maintenance and repair of equipment are also…

Tips on purchasing wheelchairs are offered to parents. Selection considerations such as weight, transporting, folding, lift and school bus accessibility, maintenance, and power supply needs are considered, as are features impacting comfort and therapeutic appropriateness. Roles of dealers, therapists, other parents, and wheelchair manufacturers in…

Forty-two U.S. companies that manufacture or distribute wheelchair carriers, van lifts, and ramps are listed, with addresses and telephone numbers. (PB)

A guide to implementing a wheelchair assistant training program at the elementary school level is presented. The program was both a solution to social isolation of students with orthopedic disabilities and a way to address the unavailability of staff to push wheelchairs for students in classes spread throughout the school. In addition to providing…

Nonambulatory or minimally ambulatory, visually impaired, and hearing impaired college students' needs in higher education institutions are considered. It is proposed that each institution have a policy statement on disabled student admission so as to ensure these students' welfare. (MSE)