Winter brings its own set of joys—snow-covered landscapes, holiday cheer, and cozy evenings by the fire.

However, for individuals who rely on wheeled mobility devices (WMDs) like scooters, manual, or power wheelchairs, winter can also bring isolation, frustration, and barriers to daily living.

A study published in Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation sheds light on the challenges faced by WMD users during the cold months and offers valuable insights for fostering greater inclusion and accessibility.

Winter Challenges for WMD Users

The study surveyed 99 WMD users or their proxies in an urban Canadian community and revealed startling findings:

• Reduced Outings and Social Isolation
  Over 40% of participants reported going out less frequently during winter. This reduction in activity wasn’t just about personal choice; it was often linked to:
• Lack of access to transportation.
• Physical barriers, like impassable sidewalks and roads.
• Age-related mobility concerns.
• Fewer outings meant increased feelings of loneliness and isolation, exacerbated by fear and anxiety over safety.
• Physical and Technological Barriers
  Snow and ice create significant obstacles for WMD users. Participants reported:
• Tires and casters getting stuck in snow (95%).
• Slipping on ice (91%).
• Difficulty navigating ramps and inclines (92%).
• Additionally, freezing temperatures affected batteries, seat cushions, and electronics, making mobility even more challenging.
• A Helping Hand (or Lack Thereof)
  A staggering 80% of participants said they needed extra help during the winter. Unfortunately, not everyone had access to the support they needed.
• Policy Gaps and Missed Opportunities
  Policies affecting snow removal, public transportation, and community planning often neglect the unique needs of WMD users, further limiting their participation in society.

How Care Remedy Can Help

• Winter-Friendly Wheelchair Solutions: Care Remedy understands that traditional wheelchairs may not perform well in harsh winter conditions. While we are not a wheelchair manufacturer, we work closely with clients to connect them with assistive technology providers that offer:
• Improved Tire Traction: Wheelchairs with snow-ready tires or casters designed for icy surfaces.
• Hand Warmers: Accessories to keep hands warm while using wheelchair controls or push rims.
• If you’re unsure where to start, our team can guide you to the right resources and assistive technology for your needs.
• Reliable Wheelchair Transportation Services : Winter weather can make public transportation unreliable or unsafe for wheelchair users. Care Remedy offers Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) services that ensure clients reach their destinations safely and on time. Our services include:
• Ambulatory and Wheelchair Transportation: Door-to-door assistance, including curb-to-curb and door-through-door services.
• Medical Appointment Rides: Reliable transportation for medical procedures, surgeries, or checkups, no matter the weather.
• Companionship for Appointments: Our trained caregivers can accompany you to provide additional support during your visits.
• Assistance Beyond Transportation Care Remedy takes a holistic approach to supporting wheelchair users, especially during winter. We offer:
• Personalized Care Plans: From light housekeeping to mobility assistance, our caregivers are trained to help you maintain independence in winter.
• Advocacy for Accessibility: We collaborate with local organizations and policymakers to address accessibility challenges, such as snow-clearing efforts and wheelchair-friendly infrastructure.
• Emergency Planning: Our team ensures that clients have contingency plans in place for unexpected winter weather.

• Leveraging Assistive Technology Technology can empower wheelchair users to navigate winter more confidently. Care Remedy helps clients explore options like:
• Winter-Ready GPS Apps: For real-time updates on accessible routes.
• Assistive Communication Devices: Ensuring seamless communication during outings or emergencies.
• Smart Home Integration: Making indoor spaces more accessible, especially during extreme weather.

Stay Active and Connected This Winter

At Care Remedy, we believe that no one should feel isolated or restricted because of winter weather. Our comprehensive services and assistive technology solutions are designed to help wheelchair users maintain their freedom, access medical care, and stay connected with their community.

Let us help you or your loved one enjoy a winter of safety, comfort, and independence. Contact Care Remedy today to learn more about how we can support you this season.

Call us at 781-957-8076 or email us at info@careremedy.com.

Together, we’ll make winter more accessible for everyone.