STEERING Wheel Judge by ability, not disability - Autumn 2013 - Disabled Drivers' Association
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STEERING Wheel
Judge by ability, not disability Autumn 2013
Inside this issue...
• Lake District Walk 2014 • Driving Assessments • Holiday at Home in 2014
STEERING Wheel
Editorial Team
Editor: Richard Ryder
Editorial Team: Kenneth Fox
Guest Writer: Trish O’Donovan
Addresses Disabled Drivers Association, Ballindine, Claremorris, Co. Mayo
Tel: 094 9364054 Fax: 094 9364336
Email: richard.ryder@ddai.ie Web: www.ddai.ie
Steering Wheel magazine is a publication of the Disabled Drivers Association of Ireland, which incorporates Ability
Enterprises Ltd and Shopmobility (Ireland) Ltd
Chairman: Mr. Pat Carty Vice Chairman: Mr. Paddy Crowley
CEO: Mr. Kenneth Fox Treasurer: Mr. Allen O’Connor
Directors: Mr. Derek Farrell, Ms. Sheila O’Donoghue, Ms. Bridget O’Sullivan, Mr. Brian Crummy,
Ms. Carmel Jennings
Contents Page
AGM and CEO Report 2013 4
Budget 2014 - Highs & Lows 7
Your Health & Driving 8/9
Lake District Walk 2014 11
News 12/13
Driving Assessments 15
Shopmobility Mahonpoint 10 yrs old! / Annual Super Draw Details 17
Get a Leg up With Legless! 18/19
Holiday at Home in 2014 21/22
Like us on Facebook to keep up with what’s happening
Facebook/DisabledDrivers
3
Judge by ability, not disability
AGM and CEO Report 2013
At our AGM this year we held workshops on member benefits, financial aspects of car
purchase and fitness to drive rule changes. Members have had to adjust to the changes in
the Tax Relief Scheme and thus far there has been no change to the fuel rebate element.
Equally though, there has been no resolution to the Mobility Allowance/Motorised Transport
Grant, which despite much consultation and several committees, remain suspended for
new applicants. Our trip to Cork for the AGM saw an increase in the numbers attending and
there was brisk business at the table top consultations and the open discussion was lively.
We have included some information around medical fitness to drive a topic from the AGM
in this issue. We plan to return to Cork again next year either to the same venue or possibly
Patrick & Margaret Gilsenan (AGM 2013) the “real” capital itself for our 2014 AGM on May 11th next.
At the AGM, we outlined the two year project we have undertaken to modernise the
Association particularly in terms of new media and information systems. Internally, we
hope that more efficient systems will release our people to be able to talk directly to our
members more frequently. This has involved some investment in buildings, equipment
and software as well as the expertise to put it all together. Externally, we have been
building and we hope improving our presence on the internet through our website and
Facebook. A particular innovation is our members’ forum where members or our staff can
post information of use to other members or answer questions posed on the forum by
members. We have also tried to improve the benefits available to members through our
partners. The new arrangement with Trident Holiday Homes, for instance is featured on
Paddy Crowley, Tim Lynch, Gerry Buckley (AGM 2013) pages 21 & 22. We would ask our members to be loyal in supporting those partners who
support them. We have also maintained our commitment to Steering Wheel with this our
third full size issue in 12 months. We would like to see direct contributions from members,
be it an experience recounted, a short story, amusing tale or a poem, any of which we
would be happy to include.
The development project is almost half way through its progress and one of the benefits
the organisation is beginning to see is more accurate data on who our service users are
and what their needs are. The organisation (DDAI, Ability Enterprises and Shopmobility)
now employs over thirty people (full time and part time). Recently, on a couple of different
days, across parking permits, driving tuition and assessment, and Shopmobility loans, only,
we had a contact point with over 100 people in all 26 counties-by lunchtime. In a full week,
Mary & Marianne Cronin (AGM 2013)
we had a contact point across the same three services with around a thousand different
people. Each of the people would have had a disability or mobility impairment. Not included
in the figures are the dozen or more students attending courses at Ability Enterprises at
any one time or the many general callers we receive on any amount of different issues.
Ability Enterprises will be seeking an increase in its training numbers from FAS, as it is now
wait listing potential trainees having reached capacity. This is as a result of a successful
campaign to promote the services available at Ability Enterprises in the local media.
One of our students, Mark Diamond, recently talked on Newstalk radio about his training
experience at Ability Enterprises.
Our trial period for Shopmobility at Blanchardstown Shopping Centre has been extended
Kevin Doyle and George O’Shea (AGM 2013) to a year and after eight months of operation it is our second most used service.
These developments are not without some cost but thankfully we have been able to finance
our progress without recourse to debt. The contributions of our members and volunteers
(who tirelessly help with church gate and other fundraising) make this possible.
I was delighted to hear from Nicky and Eileen Maher (who were rewarded for their support
with a win in last year’s Super Draw) that they enjoyed their New York trip and they paid
particular compliments to Fitzpatrick’s Grand Central Hotel including the value in the
dining and to Seán Fitzpatrick, (the hotelier not the banker) who gave them a very personal
welcome.
Best of luck to you all again this year.
Members at the AGM 2013 Kenneth Fox, CEO
4
STEERING Wheel
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STEERING Wheel
Budget 2014 - Highs and lows
As you can see from the list below there are more Lows than highs. Budget number seven since 2008 and yet again people with
disabilities and older people have taken the hit. Budget 2014 will be remembered for a lack of commitment from Government to
support people with disabilities and their families. Hopefully this will be the last austerity budget and the Government can make
good promises made to people with disabilities in their programme for government in 2010.
HIGHS LOWS
No increase The €9.50 per month telephone allowance will be discontinued
in excise
The invalidity pension weekly rate of €230.30 will be discontinued for those age 65
duty on
and aligned to the €193.50 currently paid to those under 65
petrol or diesel
The income thresholds for medical cards for those aged over 70 years old have been reduced to
No increase in
€900 for a couple and €500 for a single person
motor tax
Per-item prescription charges are to increase to €2.50 per item – this charge began as a 50 cent
€20m for
levy in 2010. The monthly cap is €25 per family
community mental
health services The number of waiting days for entitlement to Illness Benefit is being increased from 3 days to 6
days
Additional funds
for the housing The €850 once-off payment to bereaved families will be abolished
adaptation grants
The €100 reduced rate of Jobseeker’s Allowance and Supplementary Welfare Allowance to
Free GP care for existing recipients who reach 22, and for new entrants aged up to 24 on or after 1 January 2014,
5yrs and under has been extended.
Child Benefit Another reduced rate of €144 for jobseekers will apply to those reaching 25 from January next
remains unchanged year.
at €130 per month
Maternity benefit will be standarised to €230 per week for new claimants from January.
2010 Volkswagen Caddy Maxi 2010 Volkswagen Caddy 2009 Renault Master 2005 Toyota Previa
2.0tdi, DSG automatic, 5 seats plus low 2.0tdi, DSG automatic, drive from 2.5td, minibus, 6 speed manual, Ricon 2.0 Diesel, Low Floor, Conversion
floor for wheelchair access, Red, 31000 wheelchair, hand controls, remote access, electric wheelchair lift, 3 seats plus up to - Wheelchair, Accessible, 54,000 miles
miles, Price €19.950.00. Grey, 7000 miles, Price €19.950.00. 3 wheelchairs, air conditioning, Grey, Price €10.995.00
14.500 miles, Price €17.450.00.
2008 Renault Kangoo 2007 Kia Sedona 2006 Fiat Doblo 2010 Peugeot Partner
1.2, 3 seats plus low floor for wheelchair 2.9tdi, automatic, 4 seats plus low floor for 1.3td, 5 seats or 3 plus wheelchair, 1.6 Diesel, Low Floor, Conversion
access, silver, 4000 miles, wheelchair access, leather, airconditioning, low floor, Blue, 35.000 miles, - Whelchair, Accessible, 7,000 miles
Price €9450.00. Red, 33000 miles, Price €10.450.00. Price €7950.00. Price €13,995.00
7
Judge by ability, not disability
Your Health and Driving
Source: Road Safety Authority (RSA)
The grouping of vehicle categories for disease and Huntington’s disease.
driver fitness purpose is:
• A serious problem with memory or
• Group 1 categories AM, A1, A2, A, B, periods of confusion.
BE, or W i.e. motorcycles, cars and
• Persistent alcohol misuse or
tractors (with or without trailer)
dependency persistent drug misuse
• Group 2 categories C1, C, C1E, CE, or dependency
D1, D, D1E, DE i.e. trucks and buses
• Serious psychiatric illness or mental
(without trailer)
health problems
The vehicles in Group 2 are regarded
• Parkinson’s disease
as higher risk vehicles which require a
higher standard of physical and mental • Sleep apnoea syndrome
fitness on the part of the driver. The
• Narcolepsy
medical standards outlined in “Sláinte
agus Tiomáint, Medical Fitness to Driver • Any condition affecting the driver’s
Guidelines” refer to Group 1 licence peripheral vision
holders only. Standards for Group 2
• Total loss of sight in one eye
drivers are currently being developed
and will be available later this year. • Any condition affecting both eyes,
or the remaining eye if driver only
Medical conditions requiring declaration
has one eye (Not including colour
at application for, and renewal of,
blindness or short or long sight)
driving licence:
• A serious hearing deficiency
A range of medical conditions, as well
as treatments, may therefore impair • Any persisting problem with arm(s)
your Driving ability or leg(s) which needs driving to be
For most people, being able to drive restricted to certain types of vehicle
a motor vehicle is a very important • Diabetes treated by insulin and or
or those with adapted controls
part of their daily life for maintaining sulphonylurea tablets (your doctor
social contact, for getting to and from can advise whether you are on these • Is the driver’s vehicle adapted
work, and for accessing their everyday or not) no need to tell us if managed because of a physical disability to
practical needs. by other tablets and or diet enable you to drive
But with the benefits of being able to • Epilepsy • Severe learning disability
drive also comes driver’s responsibility. • Stroke or TIAs with any associated *The above list is not exhaustive
This means that as a driver you must symptoms lasting longer than one
make sure that you are well enough to Just because you have a disease or
month
drive safely. Certain health conditions condition that might affect your driving
can affect your ability to drive safely, • Fits or blackouts doesn’t mean that you won’t be able to
either in the short term or more drive at all. It might mean that you have
• Any type of brain surgery, brain
permanently. This article explains the to see your doctor more often to check
abscess or severe head Injury
types of illnesses that might affect that your condition is well managed
involving in
your ability to drive safely, your and it might mean that there are some
responsibilities and how your doctor • Patient treatment or brain tumour restrictions placed on your driving.
can help you, where you can go for or spinal injury or spinal tumour
further information and assistance. • An implanted cardiac pacemaker Who makes the rules
Categories of Vehicles • An implanted cardiac defibrillator about whether you are
Vehicles are divided into two groups,
(ICD) well enough to drive?
however, for the purpose of assessing • Repeated attacks of sudden The rules about health and driving are
medical fitness of drivers the groups disabling dizziness developed by experts and include the
are based on the mental and physical standards required under EU Directive/
• Any other chronic neurological
demands placed on the driver of the regulations. Such standards form
condition such as multiple sclerosis,
vehicle and on the potential danger in the overriding legal basis for driver
motor neurone disease, Parkinson
the event of loss of control by the driver. medical fitness in Ireland. Your doctor
8
STEERING Wheel
does not make the rules but provides affected and you will not need to report your doctor is confidential, your doctor
advice about how your particular health the temporary medical condition to the will not normally communicate directly
condition might affect your ability driver licensing authority. with the Driver Licensing Authority. He
to drive safely and how it might be or she will provide you with advice about
managed when they complete the D501 How will your doctor your ability to drive safely as well as a
Medical Report that you forward to the D501 Medical Report form to take to the
Driver Licensing Authority. The Driver assess whether or not Driver Licensing Authority.
Licensing Authority always makes the you should be driving? Doctors also have an obligation to public
final decision about your licence status.
When assessing your ability to drive safety so your doctor may notify the
They will consider the advice of your
safely, your doctor will consider your driver licensing authority directly if
doctor as well as other factors such as
physical and psychological health and he or she feels your condition poses a
your accident history and the type of
will complete a D501 Medical Report significant threat to public safety.
vehicle you drive. (for example a car,
truck or public passenger vehicle) form for you to send to the Driving
Licence Authority. He or she will refer to What happens if you
guidelines of medical standards “Sláinte
What are your legal agus Tiomáint” which is used by all
don’t follow your
responsibilities as the doctors throughout Ireland and which doctor’s advice?
describes specific requirements for
driver? various diseases and conditions. You can
If you continue to drive despite your
doctor’s advice and you do not report
To report to the Driver Licensing view these standards at: www.ddai.ie
your condition to the Driver Licensing
Authority and their insurance provider
Sometimes it can be difficult to make Authority, you are not fulfilling your
any long term or permanent injury or
an assessment and your doctor may legal responsibility. If you are involved in
illness that may affect their ability to
refer you to a specialist and where a crash under these circumstances and
drive safely: if holding a licence from
appropriate and available for a practical it is found that your health condition
an EU country other than Ireland, or a
driver assessment. was a contributing factor, you may be
recognised country for licence exchange,
prosecuted and your insurance may not
and developing a condition which could
affect safe driving, the driver must What is a conditional be valid. If your doctor is aware that you
are continuing to drive and feels that
contact the licensing authority to licence? your driving is a serious risk to you and
arrange for an exchange of their licence.
In most cases, having a medical other road users, he or she may feel
• To respond truthfully to questions condition will not stop you from driving obliged to notify the driver licensing
from the health professional as the Driver Licensing Authority is authority directly.
regarding their health status and the able to issue a conditional licence. This
likely impact on their driving ability. means that you may continue to drive as What if you have a
long as certain conditions or restrictions
• To adhere to prescribed medical
are met.
licence to drive a
treatment and monitor and manage
their Conditions may include the wearing
commercial vehicle?
• Condition and any adaptations with of corrective lenses when driving, or Professional drivers such as drivers of
on-going consideration of their attending your doctor for a periodic trucks, public passenger vehicles and
fitness to drive. review and providing a medical report vehicles carrying dangerous goods must
to the driver licensing authority. In the meet higher medical standards because
• To comply with requirements of their future it is planned to also include a of the demands of their work, the
licence as appropriate, including conditional licence which will allow for extensive hours spent on the road and
periodic medical reviews. driving during daylight hours only. Your the serious consequences likely to result
doctor may make recommendations to from a crash. If you have an illness that
What if your condition is the Driver Licensing Authority about a is likely to impact on your ability to drive
safely, it is important to tell your doctor
only temporary? conditional licence but the authority will
what sort of vehicle you drive. It may be
make the final decision. If you are issued
Many temporary conditions will prevent with a conditional licence it is your that with treatment and regular review
you from driving. For example, following responsibility to comply with any driving you will be able to continue to drive on a
an anaesthetic your doctor will advise restrictions or other conditions and to conditional licence.
you not to drive for 24 hours or more. be reviewed by your doctor as required. A person who does not meet the health
An injury, such as a broken leg may
Will your doctor notify the Driver requirements to drive a commercial
also prevent you from driving. In these
Licensing Authority if you are not well vehicle may still be eligible to drive a
types of circumstances your doctor will
enough to drive? private vehicle.
advise you about the need to restrict
your driving in the short term. In most As the relationship between you and
cases your licence status will not be
9
Learn How Western Motors Can Help Drivers And Passengers With Disabilities Western Motors’ Approach to Mobility. At Western Motors we want to demonstrate the possibilites that ŠKODA modified vehicles offer. We have partnered with Motability Ireland to demonstrate how we can cater for drivers and passengers with disabilities. We have a modified Octavia in our showroom which we will use to highlight the many options we have to optimise your ŠKODA. So please come down to Western Motors and we will endeavour to do everything to make your ŠKODA the perfect vehicle. Western Motors ŠKODA, M1 Retail Park, Drogheda, Co. Louth, Exit 10 off the M1 Motorway. T. 041 9898100. W. www.westernmotors.ie
STEERING Wheel
Lake District Walk June 2014
We will be holding our first charity
walk to the beautiful Lake District
in Cumbria from Friday 6th June
to Wednesday 11th June. The Lake
District, also commonly known
as The Lakes, is a mountainous
region in North West England.
A popular holiday destination, it
is famous not only for its lakes,
forests and mountains, but also
for its associations with the early
19th century poetry and writings of
William Wordsworth and the other
Lake Poets. www.lakedistrict.gov.uk
Historically shared by the counties
of Cumberland, Westmorland and
Lancashire, the Lake District now
lies entirely within the modern
county of Cumbria. All the land in
England higher than three thousand
feet above sea level lies within the
National Park, including Scafell Pike,
the highest mountain in England.
It also contains the deepest and
longest lakes in England, Wastwater
and Windermere, respectively.
We are looking for 12 - 15 motivated
walkers to take part in this challenge
and raise €2,000. You don’t need to
be super fit or a mountain climber
Package includes:
to complete this challenge. A love
of walking and beautiful scenery is • 5 nights, 6 days with 3 walking days and 1 free day
good enough! • Return ferry
If you are interested in getting • Accommodation in double/twin room. Limited single room available on
request and with supplement. Single room supplement (Limited availability)
involved with this challenge please
contact Richard Ryder on 087 • Breakfast and a packed lunch each day
7983709 or email richard.ryder@ • Transport to and from lakes including all drops to and from walks
ddai.ie for further information.
• Experienced guide
Visit www.ddai.ie for a booking form • Travel insurance
and advance itinerary.
• Fundraising target - €2,000
We can assist with fundraising ideas, visit www.ddai.ie to find out more.
11Judge by ability, not disability
News...News...News...News..News...
Member only Publications New Membership Card
We have a new section on our website called ‘Member Only Publications’. The new DDAI
Many of the publications contain very useful information and may help answer membership
some unanswered questions. You must be a DDAI member and have your login card is now
username and password to be able to access it. If you have these details available. The
just go to the home page on www.ddai.ie and login. If you are having trouble membership
doing this or require assistance please contact 094 9364054 and one of our card entitles
members of staff will be happy to assist you. you to various
Below are some of the publications available for download in PDF format: benefits only
available to
Financial Guide 2013 - Revenue Tax Relief Scheme Explained DDAI members, this includes discounts
New Fitness to Drive Guidelines 2013 - RSA Publication on Irish Ferries, VHI, hotel bookings
etc. for a full list of benefits visit www.
Your Health & Driving - FAQ’s ddai.ie. It also allows us to identify you
VRT7 booklet explains in detail the drivers & passengers with disabilities tax more easily as a member when you
relief scheme contact the office.
DD1 form - Tax relief in relation to vehicles purchased for use by people with As you can see from the sample picture
disabilities the card will have your name and
membership number on the front and
Claim form for repayment of excise duty on fuel used in motor vehicles for the DDAI details on the back.
transport of drivers & passengers with disabilities
Included on the card will be a direct
telephone number, manned by a live
person, for members use only. The
Christine O’Connor welcomes her special phone line will operate from
colleague, Denise Duggan, to the 25 9.30am-12.30pm each weekday.
year service club
We hope to grow the number of benefits
Denise Duggan recently received the available to members over the coming
traditional presentation of a gold watch on months and having the membership
the occasion of her completing 25 years (L to R) Denise Duggan & Christine card will allow us to approach a wider
continuous service with Ability Enterprises. O’Connor
range of potential companies. In some
future cases it may require the retailer
to scan the barcode on the card to
apply discounts.
SPRING DRAW 2013 - Winners How we help…
There is a small €2 administration
1st Prize - €750 Cash Over 16,000 unique visitors to charge for the card but this is waived
P Roche, Templeglantin, Co. Limerick the DDAI website for those returning Annual Super Draw
(www.ddai.ie) since January 1st tickets.
2nd Prize - 2 Nights B & B and 2
2013.
evening meals in Mount Juliet Please fill out the application form on
J Cullinan, Tramore, Co Waterford The Disabled Drivers Association page 16 (If you do not have a membership
provided a service to over card already) and return using the pre-
3 Prizes of €50 each 2,100 people last month, this paid envelope enclosed or contact
C. Sears, Tralee, Co. Kerry included Shopmobility, Parking the office by phone (094-9364054)
P.A. Lynch, Macroom, Co Cork Cards, Ability Enterprises and or email (info@ddai.ie).
C Wiggins, Clones, Co. Monaghan Information.
We have setup Facebook pages for both DDAI and Shopmobility. Social media is a fantastic way
for members to keep up to speed with what’s happening within the DDAI. We regularly post
interesting articles and photographs we come across and upload the latest news. facebook is
all about LIKES so if you are on facebook please LIKE us and help spread the word! Find us -
Facebook/disableddrivers and facebook/shopmobilityireland
12STEERING Wheel
News...News...News...News..News...
Member Forum Launched Member has used Shopmobility
The DDAI Members over 700 times
Forum is now up and
Moira Hutchinson
running for over two
of Abbey Manor,
months. Below is a list
Newbridge has
of the recent topics that
used the service
have been posted. If you
in Shopmobility
are interested in any of
Whitewater
the topics or want an
Shopping Centre
answer to a question or you may have a question why not
over 700 times
visit the forum on the DDAI website which can be found
in 7 years, that’s
by visiting www.ddai.ie and logging into the members
twice per week!
area. To log into the members area you will need your user
This makes Moira the person who has used the service
name and password which you would have received if you
the most. Shopmobility presented Moira with a voucher
applied for your DDAI membership card. If you have any
for Whitewater and a bouquet of flowers. Moira was
difficulty please contact the office on 094 9364054. Once
accompanied by her daughter Glynis. Moira said “I
you are logged in, you will be able to post questions, ideas,
wouldn’t be able to get out to do my weekly shopping
information and views on various topics.
only for the wonderful service Shopmobility provides.”
The members forum can become a very useful resource if She also said a big thank you to PJ Houlihan and PJ
members get involved. Treacy who manage the service. Shopmobility is a free
service that lends wheelchairs and mobility scooters to
Recent posts on our Forum
members of the public. For further information please
• Member discount on Irish Ferries visit www.shopmobility.ie
• Accessible venues in Dublin
• Irish Rail access guidelines for trains
• Dublin Bus and mobility scooters
• Further cuts to disability service organisations
• Citizens information website
• Tax relief scheme
• What training courses are provided by DDAI
• Travelling to Ireland from the UK
• Discounts on the purchase of a new vehicle (L to R) P.J. Treacy, Glynis Hutchinson, Moira Hutchinson & P.J.
Houlihan
Earlier this year An Taoiseach Enda Kenny opened the “MDI House &
National Resource Centre for Muscular Dystrophy & Allied Neuromuscular
Conditions” in Chapelizod, Dublin. (www.mdi.ie) Among others, The
Taoiseach was joined by the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs Ms
Frances Fitzgerald. Pictured above are (From L to R) An Taoiseach Enda
Kenny, Alan Gimes (DDAI), Jack Piskorski & Ray Butler TD.
We are delighted to announce that Shopmobility Dundrum are now selling daily living aids including:
Wheelchairs, Mobility Scooters (big & small) Rollators, Walkers, Walking Sticks, Handy Grabbers,
Scooter Bags and much more...Why not pop in and see what they have. You’ll find them on Level
2M, Dundrum Shopping Centre, Dundrum 01-2987982 email: blanchardstown@shopmobility.ie
www.shopmobility.ie
13Judge by ability, not disability
Cogans Carrigaline
Mobility Service
VISIT OUR SHOWROOM to learn about our mobility
service, our adapted Verso S and it’s features which
include: A Swivel Seat, Steering Wheel Ball, Push &
Pull Hand Controls and a Boot Hoist.
d
Our adapte
VERleSO S
for FREE
is availab nal calls
informatio e &
to hom
ns.
organisatio
Visit our website www.cogans.ie
or call Jean on 021 4852500
26285 - Ken Carroll.qxd:Layout 1 24/10/2012 15:08 Page 1
161013print.pdf 1 10/16/2013 10:38:35 AM
KEN CARROLL EE UROPEAN S
UROPEAN SEATING
EATING S SYMPOSIUM
YMPOSIUM
ADAPTATIONS 44TH
TH Incorporating Assistive Technology
Incorporating Assistive Technology
www.seating.ie, info@seating.ie
www.seating.ie, info@seating.ie
car adaptations for the disabled
Based in the West of Ireland
Located in Galway, “Ken Carroll Asthe
As part of partEuropean
of the European
Seating Seating
SymposiumSymposium the will
the exhibition
exhibition willtobe
be open open
the to the
public on public on
Adaptations” adapts most makes of
cars and vans for drivers or passen- TUESDAY 5 NOVEMBER, 2013
TH
TH
gers with physical disabilities. C
FOR 1 DAY ONLY!
Our service list includes; M
Swivel seats, push and Y
pull hand controls, CM
Infra red steering MY
wheel spinners, Left CY
foot accelerators,
Wheelchair accessi-
CMY
ble vehicle adaptations, boot hoists, child K
seats and safety harnesses . TIME: • Over 80 wheelchair and
seating suppliers
Ken Carroll Adaptations VENUE:
• Seperate transport
section
Cloonacauneen, Claregalway, Co. Galway
• Local, European and
For a consultation or advice International companies
CALL COME ALONG AND SEE THE VERY LATEST INNOVATIONS
IN WHEELCHAIRS AND ACCESSORIES
T: 091 798 098 • M: 087 250 2923 17/08/2013 17:26
E: kencarrolladaptations@gmail.com
www.kencarrolladaptations.ie NSAI Approved
14STEERING Wheel
Driving Assessment
Medical Professional The on road assessment allows for an
assessment in a more realistic driving
Assessments situation. This form of assessment has
Physical tests of power, strength, proven to be a better environment for
flexibility, mental and motor reaction clients who are returning to driving but
times and obviously visual acuity are now driving an adapted vehicle or
all have relevance in relation to a drivers seeking to continue driving.
person’s ability to drive safely. Various When complete the assessment
cognitive, perceptual and behavioural recommendations are discussed with
tests provide valuable information and the person being assessed and a report
Static Assessment Unit provide indicators as to how a person is formulated. The report is generally
will cope with the driving task. forwarded to the appropriate medical
practitioner with whom the final
While these tests provide valuable decision on fitness to drive lies.
information particularly in the area
of behaviour, they are not always a The National Programme Office for
reliable or comprehensive measure Traffic Medicine is currently engaged in
in determining decisions around a consultation to regularise the various
continuation or cessation of driving. A agencies conducting assessments
combination of one or more of these around driving to ensure the assessment
tests with an on-road evaluation is to process meets appropriate standards
In-Car/On-Road Assessment
date the most comprehensive way of and is fair rigorous and consistent no
assessing a driver’s ability to drive. matter which agency conducts the
assessment. DDAI is actively involved in
For anyone with a disability, medical this process.
condition or age related condition Static Assessment Unit
beginning, continuing or returning For general information on driving
At the Disabled Drivers Association assessment or further information on
to driving, a driving assessment may
in Ballindine advanced equipment is our assessment service please contact:
be recommended by a medial health
available for assessing ability to drive. DDAI, Ballindine, Claremorris, Co. Mayo.
professional to establish whether they
A static assessment unit assesses the Tel: 094 9364054 or email info@ddai.ie
are fit to drive.
motor ability of upper and lower limbs or www.ddai.ie
If now or in the future you are required in terms of strength, mobility and
to under-go an assessment it should motor reaction time. Mental reactions
not be seen as something negative and decision making ability are also
or as having a pass or fail outcome. tested. This assessment is an important
Maintaining the driver’s lifestyle component of evaluating what car Suggested reading:
and employment-related mobility adaptations, if any, are required for
‘Sláinte agus Tiomáint’ or
independence is paramount both the prospective driver. The unit also
Medical Fitness to Drive, this
for your medical professional and assesses the client’s visual field. This
publication provides guidance
organisations like the Disabled Drivers information is particularly useful for
on medical fitness for drivers
Association. those beginning to drive or returning
and is available to download or
following a traumatic injury.
In most cases, having a medical view on our website www.ddai.
condition will not stop you from driving ie ‘Your health and Driving’
as the Driver Licensing Authority is In-Car / On-Road This article explains the types
of illnesses that might affect
able to issue a conditional licence.
This means that you may continue to
Assessment your ability to drive safely, your
drive as long as certain conditions or In most cases an in-car, on road responsibilities and how your
restrictions are met. The assessment assessment may be deemed the only doctor can help you, where you
may be a key component in developing assessment necessary. An in- car, on- can go for further information
strategies for you to begin, to continue road assessment may be requested to and assistance.
or to return to driving. However in ascertain if any cognitive/perceptual
This can be found on pages 8 &
some cases it is just no longer safe for deficits affect one’s ability to drive. At
9 of this issue of Steering Wheel
a person to drive. This article explains the Disabled Drivers Association cars
or www.ddai.ie
the various types of assessment are available, which offer a range of
and what services and support the adaptations to meet the needs of the
Disabled Drivers Association of Ireland majority of clients.
can offer you.
15Judge by ability, not disability
Gardiners Lane North, Crays Hill,
Billericay, Essex CM11 2XE
Mobile: 0044 7860 894331
Fax: 0044 1268 284951
Telephone: 0044 1268 521033
email:sales@hwpickrell.co.uk www.hwpickrell.co.uk
DDAI Membership Card
Application form
TITLE: PLEASE PRINT YOUR DETAILS IN UPPER CASE
NAME:
ADDRESS:
TEL:
EMAIL:
Please complete and return to the DDAI using the pre-paid envelope
provided. Don’t forget to include payment.
No payment required if returning Annual Super Draw tickets
16STEERING Wheel
Shopmobility Shopmobility Mahonpoint
IRELAND celebrates 10 years
Shelia O’Donoghue Back row (LtoR) Hugh Jordan, Rachel (LtoR) Deirdre Lovett & Aoife Linehan (LtoR) Geraldine & Joan Lucy
O’Keffe, Catriona Sheehan Noone, Front
row (LtoR) Jossie Lynch and Shelia
Donoghue
(LtoR)Trish McCarthy & Martina Byrne (LtoR)Pat Lynch Breda McPhilips Geraldine (LtoR) Jossie & Pat Lynch (LtoR) Josephine Murphy & Doloris Murphy
Lucy & Joan Lucy
It’s hard to believe Shopmobility Mahonpoint is open 10 years!
We had a birthday party to celebrate and had a great turnout. We would like to thank everybody who made the effort to
call in and say hello. A special thanks to Aoife Linehan and her friends for calling to see us. A presentation of a bouquet of
flowers and a voucher for Mahonpoint Shopping Centre was made to Aoife for being one of our most frequent users of the
Shopmobility service. www.shopmobility.ie
Also a special thank you to Shelia Donoghue and the dedicated staff, pictured above, who have kept the service going for the
past 10 years.
Annual Super Draw
Tear here
per
€2ticket
Annual Super Draw €2 per ticket
per
€20 book
1
Buyer’s Name st
PRIZE Please return Counterfoils €20 per book
it’s that time of year again! The Disabled Drivers
and Remittances before
A Super May trip to New York Friday 6th December 2013 to:
Address This trip includes flights during Disabled Drivers Association,
May, 5 nights for 2 people sharing Ballindine, Claremorris,
Association Annual Super Draw. in the Big Apple plus $1000 Co. Mayo.
spending money. Results will be published
in The Irish Examiner
2nd PRIZE on Wednesday 11th
Tel No. December 2013.
€1,000 fuel voucher
Following on from the success of last year’s 1st prize we Email
3rd PRIZE
Licence granted to Kenneth
Fox, C.E.O., Disabled Drivers
€500 Trident Holiday Home Association at Claremorris
have decided to continue with it for another year. voucher.
(www.tridentholidayhomes.ie)
District Court on 17th
January 2012 at Castlebar
District Court No 3 Court
for promotion of this draw
Ticket No.
4th PRIZE throughout the 26 Counties.
€500 cash
1st Prize - A Super May trip to New York. This trip includes Ticket No. Draw will take place on Tuesday 10th December 2013
flights during May, 5 nights for 2 people sharing in the Big
Apple plus $1000 spending money.
centre on Tuesday 10th December 2013, so tickets should
2nd Prize - €1,000 fuel voucher be returned to the DDAI centre before Friday 6th December
3rd Prize - €500 Trident Holiday Home voucher 2013
(www.tridentholidayhomes.ie) The Annual Super Draw has always been tremendously well
4th Prize - €500 cash supported and we are very grateful for that as it makes a
substantial contribution to our fundraising target each
Those who are returning tickets should also return the new year. The Annual Super Draw has been running for over
membership card request form enclosed in the magazine 30 years now and has yielded many prize winners. Results
(if you have not already done so previously). That way will be published in The Irish Examiner on Wednesday 11th
you will receive your new membership card free of any December 2013
administration charge. The draw will take place at DDAI
17Judge by ability, not disability
Get a Leg up with Legless!
by Trish O’Donovan
and the level of slipperiness of floor
surfaces.
‘As a wheelchair user you have to get to
know where you live all over again when
you have a change like that which I think
is very daunting for a lot of people,’ she
says. Louise Bruton, now 26, was born
with a spinal condition as a result of
which she used crutches until about the
age of 23. Like many people facing the
transition from crutches to wheelchair,
she agonised about the move. In
retrospect her only regret is not making
it a year sooner. ‘In the last two years with
the wheelchair I’ve done so much more. I
can say yes to more things. I don’t have to
worry about me being tired, me getting
cranky, me getting sweaty, anything like
that because now the only things that
are in my way are buildings, bathrooms,
stairs. It’s not me that’s at fault anymore,
which is brilliant.’
When I travelled from Galway to meet and Sicily (a holiday) with plans to go Her blog is factually informative but also
blogger Louise Bruton on Westmoreland nationwide in the future. insightful and anecdotal. She doesn’t
Street, Dublin, I was relieved to have her visit premises looking for problems. But
The great thing about the blog is
mobile number in case I had problems where she finds them they are described
that, being a wheelchair user herself,
weaving my way through the cityscape. along with the positives, including the
Louise ‘gets it’. And with a background
It’s not so much that Dublin has helpfulness of staff. She also drives
in journalism, she gets it across to
suddenly become an Arctic adventure. and covers issues like parking and road/
us. She too has experienced the well-
But regardless of how well you know footpath surface en route to her venue.
intentioned wheelchair toilet with all its
it, Dublin, like pretty much anywhere, She is conscious that responsibility
paraphernalia where inadequate space
suddenly takes on those proportions if for improving facilities for people with
does not allow the door to close behind
(as I did) you have to negotiate it for the impaired mobility rests in some part with
the wheelchair user. Her blog assesses
first time in a wheelchair. us well as with premises owners. ‘It’s
the level of wheelchair friendliness in
very easy to say nothing if you noticed
Wittily termed ‘Legless in Dublin’ restaurants, cafés, bars, hotels, shops,
something bad about a bathroom or a
(check out http://leglessindublin. cinemas, parks and public transport. It
floor surface or something. You could just
blogspot.ie), Louise’s Blog (a personal also covers ramps, bathroom sizes, the
hold a grudge but as soon as you bring it
website or web page on which an spaces between tables, the wideness of
up to the manager or just any of the floor
individual records opinions) focuses doors, if there are steps or not and the
staff they’re surprised that they didn’t
mainly on the capital but does include general helpfulness of staff. And having
realise it themselves because people
her wheeelchair experience of venues on also used crutches, she covers mobility
aren’t going to locate for something they
an ongoing basis, taking in Ballyvaughan issues from every angle, including steps
don’t have to consider for themselves’.
18STEERING Wheel
The blog is a humorous and engaging easier route to take. That’s probably
read, with stories that illustrate the biggest obstacle to get over, just
disability friendly features, life for learning to say when you need help.’ It’s
somebody with mobility constraints best to be as vocal as you can and as
and the efforts people will make to polite.’
compensate if structural inadequacies
‘Legless in Dublin’ is a refreshing
are a problem. One incident mentions
and welcome addition to information
where stairs stood between Louise
services for people with mobility
and a (liftless) music venue and some
difficulties. It’s also a good read -
bouncers ‘leant an arm and some
entertaining, well researched and
muscle’ when she wanted to go upstairs.
firmly rooted in common sense. Future
More than most, she realises that
plans not only include a nationwide
bridging that gap verbally can be the
perspective but also a broadening of
biggest challenge for the person with
the site’s focus to include activities like
mobility issues. ‘Sometimes asking for
sailing for people with reduced mobility.
help is a very hard thing to do,’ she says.
Definitely one to bookmark.
It’s frustrating. I think everyone feels
like that in the beginning and through
http://leglessindublin.blogspot.ie
that hardship you realise there is an
Rob Cogan explains the reason to introduce
an adapted vehicle to the mobility service at
Cogans Carrigaline
The decision to extend our mobility service
at Cogans Carrigaline, stems from a Mobility
Awareness Event that we held at the beginning
of this year. At this event, we had on display
a Toyota Verso S and the DDAI’s Toyota Yaris,
which both showcased a range of adaptations,
which helps those with reduced mobility.
We found that those who attended the event expressed a high
level of interest in learning about the adaptations and how they
worked. As a result we added an adapted Toyota Verso S to
our showroom fleet and we encourage our customers to come
down and see the adaptations first hand. Our staff are available
to answer questions about the adaptations and what Toyota
models would suit their needs. For a full description of the
adaptations on the Verso S, you can find them on our website:
www.cogans.ie
As part of our mobility service at Cogans we are available to
make free demonstration calls to both homes and organizations.
To make an appointment for a demonstration you can call: 021
4852500 or email Jean: jmurphy@cogans.ie.
We have always made it our priority to raise awareness
around the area of mobility for both passengers and drivers
with reduced mobility whether caused from disability or age.
We offer detailed vehicle demonstrations, guidance on the
Disabled Drivers Scheme and now the added bonus of a vehicle
displaying mobility adaptations.
If you have any questions about our mobility awareness, please
feel free to contact us.
19LEE
Contact: Liam Leahy
GARAGE Tel:021-4313344
Mob:087-2380082
South Terrace, Cork email:liam@leegarage.com
Web:www.leegarage.com
The Home of Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles at Sensible Prices
“If you can’t come to us, we can come to you - Just Enquire”
FREE HOME DEMONSTRATIONS
COVERING ALL MUNSTER
1/2 Page accross 24/10/2012 15:06 Page 1
LARGE RANGE OF QUALITY USED WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE VEHICLES ALWAYS IN STOCK
25442 - Eastern Mobility:17063 - Eastern Mobility 24/10/2012 15:34 Page 1
WE RENT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE VEHICLES
EASTERN
CAR INTERIOR DESIGN MOBILITY
TRANSFORM YOUR VEHICLE
Car Interior Design brings to the marketplace a profes-
Car & Van Adaptions for
sional team of craftsmen who understand the importance
of our customers. Our fully qualified experienced coach
both Drivers & Passengers
builders, trimmers and technicians are capable of vehicle
interiors which will delight the most demanding of clients.
From our dedicated workshop in Galway City we can serv-
ice a national client base.
• Swivel Seats • Infra red remote controls
NSAI Approved
• Hydraulic Lifts • Hand Controls
• Reversing Aids • Stairlifts Contact
To see what we can help you with:
Call us on 091 767 439 for complete details. BILLY
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Or visit our web site www.carinteriordesign.ie
at
Ballinclay, Killurin,
Co. Wexford
Unit 6, Glenrock Business Park, Ballybane, Galway Telephone: (053) 91 28287
091 767 439 087 790 4736
info@carinteriordesign.ie Mob: (087) 207 3351STEERING Wheel
Trident Holiday Homes
We are delighted to announce that we have teamed up with Trident Holiday Homes to offer members of the Disabled Drivers
Association a range of accessible holiday homes throughout Ireland.
Trident Holiday Homes is an Irish self-catering holiday home company which specialises in vacation rentals in Ireland. They offer a
wide variety of accommodation ideally located throughout the country from Galway to Kerry and Waterford to Clare.
www.tridentholidayhomes.ie
How it works… 4 easy steps. Below are photographs and descriptions of the accessible houses
available.
1. Choose your holiday home destination
Booking opens on the 1st February 2014 and closes on 31st March
2. Contact DDAI to check availability
2014. To be in with a chance to get your holiday FREE book and pay
3. Complete booking form your deposit on or before February 28th 2014.
4. Forward deposit and completed booking For bookings and information please Contact DDAI - 094 9364054 or
form to DDAI (before 31st March) email info@ddai.ie. Further information also available on www.ddai.ie
Lakeside Holiday
Homes, Killaloe,
Co. Clare
These 3 bedroom holiday homes have
a double bedroom en suite, a twin
and a family bathroom on the ground
floor. On the first floor is an open
plan kitchen / dining / living area, a
shower room and a double bedroom.
There is an onsite toddler’s play area.
This wheelchair accessible house is
fitted with a chair lift on the stairs
TV Channels - RTE, TV3, BBC &
Channel 4.
Lisdoonvarna
Village Holiday
Homes,
Lisdoonvarna,
Co. Clare
This wheelchair accessible
house has widened doors, level
access shower, support rails,
lowered kitchen units, lowered
switches and power points.
21Judge by ability, not disability
Spiddal Holiday Homes, Spiddal,
Co. Galway
These 4 bedroom holiday homes have an open plan kitchen / dining / living
area with open fire, on the ground floor there is 1 double, 1 twin bedroom and
a shower room. On the first floor is a double bedroom, a twin and a family
bathroom.
There is one on site tennis courts (equipment not provided) an area with
basketball net and goal posts on tarmac; 2 playgrounds and a Games Room
(with table tennis and pool table).
N.B These holiday homes have electric heating and electric cooker.
This wheelchair accessible house has widened doors, ground floor bedroom
(double and twin rooms available), ground floor roll in shower and support
rails.
Crystal Fountain Holiday Homes, Tralee, Co.
Kerry
These holiday homes have an open plan kitchen / dining / living area with wood
burning stove and French doors on to the patio. There is also a ground floor
twin bedroom (en suite). On the first floor is a double bedroom (en suite) and
a twin (en suite).
There is an onsite toddler’s play area.
This wheelchair accessible house has widened doors, ground floor bedroom
with twin beds, ground floor roll in shower and support rails. Bed can be raised
to accommodate a hoist.
Dingle Courtyard Cottages (4 bed),
Dingle, Co. Kerry
These holiday homes have an open plan kitchen / dining
/ living room with an open fire, separate utility room, a
ground floor cloakroom and double bedroom (en suite).
On the first floor is a double bedroom (en suite), two twins
and a family bathroom.
This holiday home is wheelchair modified.
Sea Cliff Holiday Homes, Dunmore East, Co.
Waterford
These 3 bedroom holiday homes have an open plan living / dining / kitchen
area on the ground floor with doors leading to the patio and a family
bathroom. On the first floor, there is a double bedroom (en suite), a twin and
a single. (En Suite may vary, some houses have double bedroom ensuite
and some have twin bedroom ensuite) and also (bathrooms may vary some
have bath’s and some have shower’s). There is a children’s play area and 18
hole golf course on site.
This wheelchair accessible house has ground floor bedroom, shower room
facilities and doors with wider access.
222 Mobility
STEERING Wheel
Call: 01 515 3644
Back www.Back2Mobility.com
Naas Industrial Estate, Naas, Co. Kildare
Access Lightweight Transit Wheelchair
Boost 4 Small Mobility Scooter
For
Ideal
lling!
Trave
Colt Nine Medium Mobility Scooter Glide Pro Self Propelled Wheelchair
23Judge by ability, not disability
SEE THE
ALL NEW COROLLA
At your local Toyota dealer.
Class leading interior space, astonishing fuel economy
3.8L/100km (74.1 mpg) and more, all wrapped up in the
striking lines of the all new Corolla. Come and see. From €20,995
toyota.ie
Corolla from €20,995. Model shown is Corolla Luna 1.33 Dual VVT-i. Price €23,890. Fuel Consumption Corolla 1.33 Dual VVT-i: L/100km Urban – 7.2., Extra Urban – 4.7, Combined – 5.6. CO2 emissions g/km - 129g.
Prices exclude delivery and related charges. The Corolla comes with a 3 year or 100,000km comprehensive warranty and 3 year Toyota Eurocare roadside assistance. Toyota Ireland is a 100% Irish owned company.You can also read
