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Photo: a man in a wheelchair drives over an uneven test track at REHACARE while talking to a man walking next to him; Copyright: Messe Düsseldorf / ctillmann

Messe Düsseldorf / ctillmann

Actively involving people with disabilities in product development

27.11.2024

When it comes to product development in the assistive technology sector, it is important to involve people with disabilities in the processes. After all, they are ultimately the users – they can enrich the development process by sharing their experiences and are best qualified to judge whether an innovation really helps.
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Image: Woman with blonde hair, Svenja Gluth, smiles at the camera while she sits in a wheelchair in the garden; Copyright: private

private

Svenja Gluth – That's how she rolls

20.11.2024

As a mother with a disability, Svenja Gluth sometimes faces special challenges – and finds creative solutions. For her family, her disability is a natural part of life, and together they always find a way to make everyday life more active. At REHACARE.com, she explains why she would like to travel into the future instead of the past and what makes REHACARE so special for her.
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Image: Angela Maas in a competition sailing boat; Copyright: Angela Maas

Angela Maas

Accessible travel: Stories of boundaries, freedom and the power of the wind

15.10.2024

Freedom can suddenly become palpable – be it while sailing or gazing into an untouched national park. But what if the body doesn't play along? Traveling can be challenging for people with disabilities. Nevertheless, many prove that it is possible and that it is worth pushing your limits and experiencing new adventures.
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Image: A woman stands with her wheelchair and the Empulse F35 traction device from Sunrise Medical in front of a large display board at the train station; Copyright: Sunrise Medical

Sunrise Medical

Accessible travel: Aids for more mobility and freedom

23.09.2024

Traveling is one of the best experiences in life. But for people with disabilities, there are often barriers to overcome that others don't even notice. This makes it all the more important for the travel industry to focus more and more on inclusive solutions. Fortunately, there are now numerous innovations that make traveling much easier for people with limited mobility.
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Image: Young man in black work clothes, Florian Ridder, sits in the cab of a forklift truck; Copyright: Landschaftsverband Westfalen-Lippe

Landschaftsverband Westfalen-Lippe

More opportunities for everyone: How inclusion in companies enriches the work environment

18.09.2024

165,725 severely disabled people were unemployed in Germany on average in 2023. This figure illustrates the ongoing challenge: people with disabilities often find it more difficult to find a job on the primary labor market than jobseekers without disabilities, despite having good qualifications.
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Image: The logo of the Global Disability Summit; Copyright: Global Disability Summit

Global Disability Summit

REHACARE 2024: Symposium on international cooperation for inclusion

18.09.2024

On 26.09.2024, a symposium on the Global Disability Summit 2025, organized by BAG SELBSTHILFE and the German Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs, will take place as part of REHACARE in Düsseldorf. The aim of the conference is to strengthen and deepen international cooperation to promote the rights of people with disabilities.
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Image: Photo of a staircase in Paris with writing on the steps; text:

Ottobock

Paralympics: Companies as active supporters

04.09.2024

The Paralympics are much more than a sporting event. They are a symbol of inclusion, innovation and the power of human will. Behind the scenes, companies play a key role in ensuring that athletes with disabilities can compete at the highest level.
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Photo: Designer Paul de Livron works on a wooden wheelchair in his workshop; Copyright: Etienne de Livron

Etienne de Livron

Functionality meets aesthetics: why the design of assistive devices is more important than ever

26.08.2024

Aids such as wheelchairs, prostheses and walking aids are an integral part of everyday life for many people with disabilities. Their flawless functionality is undoubtedly essential. However, their aesthetic design is now also coming into focus. We have collected examples and opinions on this topic.
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Picture: Man in a suit, Joachim Schoss, smiling into the camera; Copyright: EnableMe

EnableMe

EnableMe: Support in all stages of life

19.08.2024

Joachim Schoss is the founder of EnableMe and an ambassador for the #TogetherForInclusion initiative. His personal experiences shaped his desire to make a difference. With EnableMe, Schoss has created a broad-based platform for people with disabilities that addresses important issues in their private and professional lives.
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Image: Two women with long hair, Martina Gollner and Christina Riedler, stand back to back in front of a black background and look into the camera; Copyright: FullAccess

FullAccess

Participation means being there – events for and with people with disabilities

19.08.2024

Whether it's a festival or a football match: attending large events is often not an easy undertaking for people with disabilities. This is why Christina Riedler and Martina Gollner focus on accessibility and participation in the often neglected leisure sector with their agency FullAccess Event Services in Austria.
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Image: People in a swimming pool, a supervising person at the edge of the pool; Copyright: Nellen/BRSNW

Nellen/BRSNW

On the same wavelength – inclusive and active swimming

19.08.2024

Sport for all is a major topic at REHACARE 2024. With the project "On the same wavelength – active inclusivity", the Disabled and Rehabilitation Sports Association NRW (BRSNW) and the Swimming Association NRW (SV NRW) are breaking new ground to enable all people to take part in swimming lessons.
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Picture: The editorial team of Dossier/other at work; Copyright: Dossier/andererseits

Dossier/andererseits

Journalism for all from Austria

19.08.2024

Inclusive journalism aims to make access to information as barrier-free as possible: through plain language and content that is also suitable for people with visual or hearing disabilities. The editorial teams of the Austrian magazines andererseits and Dossier have also recognized this and started an experiment.
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Image: Woman with short gray hair and colorful clothes, Sabine Klemens, sits smiling in her wheelchair in front of a bookstore; Copyright: Christoph Klemens

Christoph Klemens

Sabine Klemens – That's how she rolls

14.08.2024

On her travels around the world, Sabine Klemens feels true freedom and lightness. As often as possible, she travels with her family in a caravan and discovers new things - although she still has a few dream destinations to visit. Why her wheelchair should have a parachute and how she rolls otherwise, she tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Photo: Alex Papanikolaou smiles over one shoulder at the camera, mountains and a lake can be seen in the background; Copyright: Freedom One Life

Freedom One Life

A power wheelchair for more joy and freedom

07.08.2024

Alex Papanikolaou learnt from online forums that he was not the only one who was dissatisfied with his wheelchairs. Based on his personal experience, he founded a production company for power wheelchairs: Freedom One Life. The products had to be robust and practical in order to contribute to a better quality of life.
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Image: Logo of EnableMe Insights; Copyright: EnableMe

EnableMe

EnableMe Insights – Participation as the key to better assistive devices and more inclusion

11.07.2024

"Nothing about us without us" is the motto of EnableMe Insights. The message is clear: accessibility and inclusion only work if people with disabilities are actively involved in the various development processes. In an interview with REHACARE.com, Boryana Milova from EnableMe talks about the goals and challenges of the project – and how you can get involved.
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Photo: A woman stands in a kitchen, her right foot is in a splint, next to her is a standing walking aid; Copyright: STEETS

STEETS

Innovative STEETS module: Safe placement of walking aids

10.07.2024

An innovative idea in the field of mobility devices comes onto the market: the STEETS module makes it possible to place walking aids safely and stably. After four years of intensive development and testing, three students from Dortmund University of Applied Sciences and Arts and Paderborn University and Paderborn University of Applied Sciences and Arts present their final product.
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Photo: Martina Koepp, woman with shoulder-length blond hair, smiling in front of a sign of the German Society for Gerontology; Copyright: G. Klauke/GGT

G. Klauke/GGT

Accessible living: When everyone benefits

24.06.2024

When people think of accessible living, they have images of wheelchairs and walking frames in their heads. But accessibility should be considered for everyone – as a matter of course and in every building construction. Only then will it become widespread. REHACARE.com spoke to Martina Koepp, Managing Director of GGT, about challenges and solutions for age-appropriate and accessible living.
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Photo: A modern angular house photographed from the front and side view as well as with parts of the green areas. Copyright: Smart Living & Health Center e.V.

Smart Living & Health Center e.V.

"House of the Future" in Berlin: a center for self-determined living

17.06.2024

The "House of the Future" is located in the heart of Marzahn-Hellersdorf in Berlin. It is part of the Unfallkrankenhaus (Accident hospital) Berlin (ukb) – an innovative facility dedicated to promoting a self-determined life. In June, the center invites you to a special open day.
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Photo: A converted Hyundai STARIA with a ramp for a wheelchair; Copyright: AMF-Bruns

AMF-Bruns

AMF-Bruns: Accessible conversion for comfortable and safe transportation

10.04.2024

From mid-2024, AMF-Bruns will be offering accessible conversions for the new Hyundai STARIA. The futuristic vehicle not only impresses with its design, but also with flexible conversion solutions that enable the safe and comfortable transportation of wheelchair users.
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Photo: A recumbent bike in a showroom; linked to video

Making cycling possible for everyone – exploring the new HASE BIKES flagship store

14.12.2023

Mobility means more than just moving from A to B. It means freedom and independence. This makes it all the more important to enable unrestricted mobility for everyone. At Schaltwerk – the new flagship store of HASE BIKES in Waltrop, Germany – visitors can discover new ways to become or remain self-determined and mobile.
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Photo: A woman in light blue clothing wears VR goggles and holds her hands in front of her; Copyright: Darlene Alderson / Pexels

Darlene Alderson / Pexels

Digitalization in therapy professions: Progress against the shortage of skilled workers?

26.10.2023

There is a shortage of skilled workers – also in the therapy sector. People who need physiotherapy, ergotherapy or speech therapy due to a disability, illness or injury often have to wait a long time for entry into a program. Progress in digitalization offers new opportunities for those affected and can relieve the burden on therapists.
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Photo: Two women, one of them in a wheelchair, sit at a desk and work together on a computer; Copyright: Andi Weiland, Boehringer Ingelheim / Gesellschaftsbilder.de

Andi Weiland, Boehringer Ingelheim / Gesellschaftsbilder.de

Inclusion in the workplace: how to make real participation in working life a reality

16.10.2023

Workplace inclusion – a topic that has preoccupied many people for decades, but continues to receive little attention in society. Instead of asking what measures can be taken to make a workplace barrier-free, many people with disabilities are still excluded and labelled as "not employable".
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Photo: A man with a hearing aid holds up his hands at an event to signal 'applause' in sign language; Copyright: Andi Weiland / Gesellschaftsbilder.de

Andi Weiland / Gesellschaftsbilder.de

Louder is not always better: assistive devices for people with hearing disabilities

27.09.2023

Participation is not the same as taking part. Many people with a disability are no strangers to this realization. At REHACARE 2023, Susanne Schmidt from the German Association for the Hearing Impaired explained to us where the problems lie in the participation of people with a hearing impairment and what technical, but also very human solutions are possible.
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Photo: a young woman sitting in front of a laptop and signing with her hands; Copyright: envato/astakhovyaroslav

envato/astakhovyaroslav

REHACARE 2023: Professional participation is possible for all

31.08.2023

People with disabilities have the guaranteed right to be part of the community in all areas of life. But unfortunately, there are still far too many barriers that exclude individuals from the community.
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Image: three people are standing behind a wheelchair user, raising signs with chinese sings on it; Copyright: REHACARE Shanghai

REHACARE Shanghai

REHACARE CHINA: for visitors, country and progress

22.08.2023

Messe Düsseldorf (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. has upgraded REHACARE SHANGHAI to REHACARE CHINA and moved the trade fair to Suzhou. The event will take place from 23 to 25 August 2023.We spoke to James Zhang, Senior Project Director of Messe Düsseldorf (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. about the background, the importance of the show for the country and the highlights of the event.
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Photo: The PARAVAN Hyundai STARIA in black color with extended electric wheelchair on an empty square under a blue sky; Copyright: PARAVAN

PARAVAN

PARAVAN premiere Hyundai STARIA: Expressive design with plenty of space

16.08.2023

The new PARAVAN Hyundai STARIA is a modern wheelchair-accessible multivan that can be customized and is available with various features such as a cassette lift, drive and steering system, and voice control. Thanks to a lowered vehicle floor, it offers spacious interior space for wheelchair and passengers.
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Photo: a woman using a wheelchair opens the door of a silver Volkswagen Golf; Copyright: visitBerlin; Andi Weiland | Gesellschaftsbilder.de

visitBerlin; Andi Weiland | Gesellschaftsbilder.de

Automobility: Self-determined living in everyday life

03.08.2023

Self-determination is one of the basic needs of every person. However, the everyday life of people with disabilities often becomes more difficult due to various barriers and restricted mobility. This frequently also applies when it comes to driving a car. Individual adaptations and digital solutions, however, often make this possible again.
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Photo: a woman using a wheelchair enters a silver car over a ramp; Copyright: Timo Hermann | Gesellschaftsbilder.de

Timo Hermann | Gesellschaftsbilder.de

From handbike tours to camping holidays – how to manage mobility in leisure time

27.07.2023

Riding a bike or going for a hike at the weekend – what is normal for many can be a great challenge for people with mobility impairments. When participation in social life is impeded, the quality of life often suffers. The effects vary depending on the degree to which people are affected. Thankfully, many companies offer solutions to manage the desire for mobility in leisure activities.
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Photo: Man with beard sitting in a sweeper with electric step; Copyright: PARAVAN

PARAVAN

PARAVAN: Reintegration into working life with disabilities

10.07.2023

PARAVAN GmbH demonstrates a wide range of possibilities for individually adapting vehicles and machines to make it easier for people with disabilities to re-enter working life, whether through adaptations to access or the control of the vehicles. Inclusion in the workplace requires willingness and a common basic understanding among all parties involved.
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Photo: A woman with disabilities sits at the helm of a sailing dinghy, a second woman sits in the boat with her and holds ropes in her hands; Copyright: SailWise

SailWise

Active on vacation – with the right travel offers and the right assistive devices

28.06.2023

Everyone likes to travel. A vacation promises relaxation, action and adventure or simply a break from everyday life. Even if people with disabilities must consider more than people without disabilities when planning a trip, a vacation according to one's own interests is no longer an unreachable goal. The travel industry has a lot to offer these days.
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Photo: Two teenage girls sitting in an inclusive sailboat at Rehacare; Copyright: Messe Düsseldorf / Andreas Wiese

Messe Düsseldorf / Andreas Wiese

Sports for people with disabilities: active on land and water

13.06.2023

Many people engage in sports in their free time. Some want to promote their own health, others want to achieve a specific goal. Some people use sport to clear their heads, while others simply enjoy it. Sports activities also serve as a meeting place for social contacts and shared experiences.
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Image: An elderly woman is grocery shopping with her Wheeleo®.; Copyright: Wheeleo®

Wheeleo®

Wheeleo®: the walking aid for stability and autonomy

31.05.2023

The new generation walking aid companion? The Wheeleo® feels like a never-ending guardrail and accompanies you everywhere you go. With its one-handed design it helps regain autonomy while supporting movement in everyday situations. For example, it enables grocery shopping, opening doors and walking the dog. It also reduces the risk of falling, is easy to transport and has an elegant design.
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Image: A man in the ergoflix LX foldable electric wheelchair sits outside with a woman and a picnic basket; Copyright: ergoflix

ergoflix

Folding electric wheelchairs by ergoflix: adding more joy to life with the right mobility solution

18.04.2023

Autonomy instead of dependency, social inclusion instead of social isolation – that's the motto of ergoflix. Leveraging high levels of motivation and conviction, the medical equipment manufacturer is committed to making it easier to access smart and aesthetic mobility equipment. The company developed a series of foldable electric wheelchair models that promote an active and flexible lifestyle.
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Image: A man sits in an iBOT electric wheelchair and rides through dunes; Copyright: 2KERR

2KERR

IBOT electric wheelchair: go wherever you want – physically and socially

30.03.2023

The iBOT is a multifunctional personal mobility device that allows users to achieve things that were previously impossible. With twenty years of advanced technology combined into one device with six different modes, users can go wherever they want. And wherever they are, the iBOT electric wheelchair makes participation possible.
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Image: Rear view of a dark VW Caddy Maxi 5. From the open trunk comes the rear ramp; Copyright: PARAVAN

PARAVAN

PARAVAN delivers vehicles for people with disabilities to car rental company Avis

29.03.2023

PARAVAN GmbH delivers vehicles for people with disabilities to the Avis car rental company. A total of 20 new VW Caddy 5 Maxi will leave the yard of the PARAVAN mobility park in Aichelau by the end of March and begin their journey to Avis rental stations throughout Germany.
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Image: Front view of the NANO S folding wheelchair; Copyright: MEYRA GmbH

MEYRA GmbH

MEYRA presents the world's first folding wheelchair NANO S

22.03.2023

The company MEYRA has produced the first folding wheelchair named NANO S. It is a folding wheelchair with open frame and removable leg supports, which stands out with its lightness and stability.
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Image: Computer keyboard above which the words Accessibility can be seen; Copyright: European Disability Forum

European Disability Forum

Web Accessibility Directive: better feedback mechanism, more expertise needed

20.03.2023

An evaluation report by the European Commission reported on the first three years of application of the Web Accessibility Directive (WAD). The period of the review overlaps with the accelerated digital transformation brought on by the pandemic.
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Image: Denise walks along the water with the smart leg orthosis C-Brace; Copyright: Ottobock

Ottobock

Ottobock: a new lease of life with an app-controlled leg orthosis

15.03.2023

Denise was 29 years old when she underwent disc surgery – a seemingly harmless procedure. However, the surgery didn't go as smoothly as planned and when she woke up from anaesthesia, she could no longer feel her right thigh. The diagnosis: incomplete paraplegia. The world's first smart leg orthosis, the C-Brace® has given the mother of two new mobility and improved her quality of life.
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Image: A paralyzed individual walks up the stairs to visit a friend's home using her ReWalk Personal Exoskeleton; Copyright: ReWalk Robotics Ltd.

ReWalk Robotics Ltd.

ReWalk exoskeleton receives FDA clearance for stairs and curbs

13.03.2023

ReWalk, a leading provider of innovative technologies that enable mobility and wellness in rehabilitation and daily life for individuals with neurological conditions, announced that its innovative ReWalk Personal Exoskeleton technology has received clearance from the FDA for use on stairs and curbs in the US, making it the only personal exoskeleton to receive FDA clearance for this indication.
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Photo: Frank Lackner in an exhibition hall with a leather bag around his neck and looking at the camera; Copyright: private

private

Frank Lackner – That's how he rolls

08.03.2023

Frank Lackner fights for more accessibility in public spaces. In 1991, he and a friend founded the International Citizens' Initiative for Wheelchair Users' Interests, or INTERROLLI in short. What improvements he would like to see in disabled toilets and how else he rolls, he tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Image: An elderly man sits in a wheelchair in the door frame and holds on to the door handle; Copyright: Showerbuddy

Showerbuddy

5 ways to make a home easier for elderly people

08.03.2023

The transition from elderly people being fully independent to needing a bit of help is often gradual. Sometimes the signs aren’t obvious nor are these people actively seeking out help. But in order to keep them safe in their own home, we need to proactively take some steps to make daily tasks easier.
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Image: Doctor tracking the evolution of the patient's brain on the tablet in a modern laboratory; Copyright: DC_Studio

DC_Studio

Neural prosthesis uses brain activity to decode speech

06.03.2023

Researchers from HSE University and the Moscow State University of Medicine and Dentistry have developed a machine learning model that can predict the word about to be uttered by a subject based on their neural activity recorded with a small set of minimally invasive electrodes.
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Image: Lukas sits in his new Ford Tourneo Connect with the Space Drive driving and steering system and two joysticks; Copyright: PARAVAN

PARAVAN

"Mobile tailor-made suit" by PARAVAN: flexible operating devices for vehicles

27.02.2023

Lukas drives his new Ford Tourneo Connect with the Space Drive driving and steering system and two joysticks – one for accelerator/brake and one for steering. But every now and then, someone else sits behind the steering wheel who doesn't need these input devices. Thanks to a resourceful solution from PARAVAN's technicians, this can be realized within a minute.
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Image: Double-sided and standard-compliant wall handrail in a residential complex; Copyright: Flexo-Handlaufsysteme GmbH

Flexo-Handlaufsysteme GmbH

Tangible safety: self-determination thanks to Flexo handrail systems

23.02.2023

Code-compliant handrail systems provide safety and make stairs accessible and usable for more people. They help reduce fall risk, facilitate more mobility, and allow people to gain access to all rooms. Thanks to its work with older adults and people with disabilities, Flexo-Handlaufsysteme GmbH knows about potential barriers and has made it its mission to promote the self-determination of people.
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Image: Therapy room in the Patient Care Competence Center; Copyright: Ottobock

Ottobock

Ottobock unveils the patient care of the future

22.02.2023

On 20 February, the global healthtech company Ottobock opened the doors to its most state-of-the-art and future-oriented clinic to date. Located in the newly developed Sartorius Quarter in the German city of Göttingen, the clinic will provide care for patients across the country and worldwide.
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Photo: Annika Schröder is holding a badminton bat and smiles into the camera; Copyright: Sandra Lange

Sandra Lange

Annika Schröder – That's how she rolls

22.02.2023

Accessibility plays a key role for Annika Schröder. She sees a need to catch up in many areas – from public transport to bureaucracy. The 25-year-old competitive athlete has the support of her friends and family. Why she would like to see more determination from politicians and how she rolls otherwise, she tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Image: Alexander Klems sits in his wheel loader and operates it with his hands; Copyright: PARAVAN GmbH

PARAVAN GmbH

Reintegration into working life: Operating a wheel loader via joystick

15.02.2023

Alexander Klems has been driving wheel loaders for 21 years. In 2019, everything was going to be different. He got injured. He could no longer operate the accelerator pedal of his Hitachi ZW 330 wheel loader, which he almost always has to step on when loading construction materials. Another solution was needed, which was found at PARAVAN thanks to the Space Drive drive-by-wire system.
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Photo: Sebastian Stabler sitting in his wheelchair; Copyright: private

private

Sebastian Stabler – That's how he rolls

08.02.2023

Not just stand, but dance – that's what Sebastian Stabler would like to do. He is still waiting for the right assistive equipment. But the paraplegic 37-year-old already shows himself to be a sporty and active person. Why he would like to meet a certain bodybuilder and how he rolls otherwise, he tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Image: A young girl straightens up in the electric children's wheelchair to reach a glass of juice on a higher counter; Copyright: PARAVAN

PARAVAN

Children's wheelchairs by PARAVAN: independent standing, lying, sitting and tilting

01.02.2023

At the rehaKIND congress, PARAVAN presents the versatile wheelchair portfolio of the PR series for children with a seat concept that grows with the child. There is a wide range of possible uses. With the adaptable power wheelchairs, children are in the middle of the action and not just there.
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Photo: Karina Sturm wears a black hat, which she holds with one hand. She smiles past the camera; Copyright: private

private

Karina Sturm – That's how she rolls

25.01.2023

Writing a book – a dream for many people. For Karina Sturm, it was a chance to accept her diagnosis. By giving advice, she wants to enable other people to do what she has managed to do herself: to become an active part of their own disease management and to live a self-determined life. How she rolls otherwise, she tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Photo: Sascha Scholz looking into the camera, one eye closed; Copyright: private

private

Sascha Scholz – That's how he rolls

11.01.2023

Nowadays, mobility for many people with disabilities means being able to be self-determined in their own car. One prerequisite for this is a driver's license. Which detours and obstacles Sascha Scholz had to overcome to get his license, where he went on his subsequent European tour, and how he rolls otherwise, he tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Photo: Kae Tran infront of a shelf with cameras. She leans onto a drawer; Copyright: Patrick Estebar

Patrick Estebar

Kae Tran – That's how she rolls

14.12.2022

Self-determined mobility is possible in Kae Tran's everyday life mainly through her walking stick. The aid has become her most important companion. What changes she would like to see in rollators and in society, what role mental health plays for her and how she rolls otherwise, she tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Photo: Victoria H. sitting in a wheelchair in front of a field; Copyright: private

privat

Victoria H. – That's how she rolls

30.11.2022

Victoria H. sees the world with more mindful eyes since she had to get to know herself and her body anew. However, she has retained her enthusiasm for sports and has found many new ways to practice it. What kind of role REHACARE plays in this, why straws are an important assistive device in her everyday life and what how she rolls otherwise, she tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Photo: Ricky sitting in his wheelchair infront of a swimming pool; Copyright: private

private

Ricky – That's how he rolls

16.11.2022

His relationships with his family, friends and God not only make Ricky's day, but are also his most important tools in everyday life. And with his modified bus, wheelchair and walker, he is able to compensate well for his limitations. Which positive experiences he has already had, how the supply of aids could be optimized and how he rolls otherwise, he tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Photo: Saskia Melches smiling and sitting in her wheelchair on a ice skate ring; Copyright: Saskia Melches

Saskia Melches

Saskia Melches – That's how she rolls

02.11.2022

Various assistive devices and a team of assistants help Saskia Melches to manage her active everyday life. Whether in or out of her home, she wants to lead as self-determined a life as possible. How society and the assistive technology industry could support her, what the jungle of Peru is all about and how she rolls otherwise, she tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Photo: Rebecca Brunner sitting on a staircase, her protsthetic leg can be seen; Copyright: Rebecca Brunner

Rebecca Brunner

Rebecca Brunner – That's how she rolls

19.10.2022

Rebecca Brunner likes to take her life into her own hands and gives every day the chance to be the best. Her prosthetic leg helps her to always try out new things and overcome new challenges. What she wants from her fellow human beings, what is particularly important to her in the assistive technology industry and how she rolls otherwise, the social media manager tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Photo: Svenja in her wheelchair smiling at the camera; Copyright: Svenjas Welt

Svenjas Welt

Svenja – That's how she rolls

05.10.2022

Getting used to an assistive device is not always easy. That's how Svenja felt about her wheelchair at first. But now she appreciates how much freedom and flexibility it gives her in everyday life. Which other aid she thinks should be invented and which special wheelchair she once discovered at REHACARE, she tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Photo: Antonio Hoempler doing downhill skateboarding; Copyright: Antonio Hoempler

Antonio Hoempler

Antonio Hoempler – That's how she rolls

21.09.2022

Whether it's festivals or downhill skateboarding – Antonio Hoempler loves action and adaptive sports. He also enjoys riding his handbike. With the support of friends and assistive devices, he can pursue his many interests. How he rolls otherwise, he tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Photo: People get advice at a stand at REHACARE; Copyright: Messe Düsseldorf/Constanze Tillmann

Messe Düsseldorf/Constanze Tillmann

Choose, touch, and try out products – experience REHACARE live and in-person again in 2022

12.09.2022

You’re probably familiar with this scenario: You order a fabulous piece of clothing or shoes online, only to be terribly disappointed when the item arrives but doesn’t fit. It’s an all-too-familiar problem for people with disabilities who depend on these resources. Whether it’s a mobility aid or adapted car, the device must be customized to fit the needs of the individual to provide support.
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Photo: Isabelle Sievers holding a phone with her prothetic arm; Copyright: Isabelle Sievers

Isabelle Sievers

Isabelle Sievers – That's how she rolls

07.09.2022

A prosthetic arm has given Isabelle Sievers a lot of quality of life and self-confidence. In just three years, she has overcome many lows and continued her self development. Her strong will and perseverance have helped her to achieve even the seemingly impossible. In our interview, she emphasizes that everyone has their own strengths and can achieve anything.
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Photo: RVs parked in front of a lakeshore at sunset; Copyright: CreativeNature_nl/envato.

CreativeNature_nl/envato

Living a self-determined life: accessible travel around the world

29.08.2022

Get in your camper to get away: Each year, thousands of Germans make this dream come true as is evidenced by the number of current new registrations of camper vans, travel trailers and recreational vehicles. Standard models often include many practical features - but unfortunately, accessible solutions are still few and far between.
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Photo: a man in a blue car with wheelchair loading system; Copyright: Veigel GmbH + Co. KG

Veigel GmbH + Co. KG

Electromobility: technology support for people with disabilities

29.08.2022

For persons with reduced mobility, participation in social and civic life is often only an option if the conditions are right: Wheelchair users need accessible designs to train stations or bus stops to use these modes of transportation. Unfortunately, many places still lack accessible accommodations, which is why many people rely on cars to ensure their mobility and transportation.
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Photo: Katja Tefiki while paragliding; Copyright: Katja Tefiki

Katja Tefiki

Katja Tefiki – That's how she rolls

24.08.2022

Katja Tefiki had to completely reorganize her everyday life after she became paraplegic. She got her driver's license and today her car and wheelchair are her indispensable companions. She loves long car rides and paragliding is also one of her passions. How she rolls otherwise, she tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Photo: Tahina Andale smiling at the camera; Copyright: Tahina Andale

Tahina Andale

Tahina Andale – That's how she rolls

10.08.2022

Whether it's a cane or a walker, walking aids can make a significant contribution to greater mobility and a more self-determined life. Tahina Andale has also made this experience. Why the path to this realization was not always easy and what else has helped her to cope better with her chronic illness, she tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Photo: Alain Zanchetta smiling at the camera; Copyright: Alain Zanchetta

Alain Zanchetta

Alain Zanchetta – That's how he rolls

27.07.2022

Alain Zanchetta is a fighter. He would have to overcome difficulties early on, but he has gained a lot of strength and confidence as a result. As a designer, he develops inclusive design products himself to help other people. At the same time, his job offers him the security and perspective he craves. At REHACARE.com he tells us how he rolls otherwise.
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Photo: Bastian K. smiling at the camera; Copyright: Leben mit PEG

Leben mit PEG

Bastian K. – That's how he rolls

13.07.2022

Bastian K. is a summer person at heart. He enjoys spending time with family and friends. In doing so, the lack of accessibility often causes him more difficulties than the progressive muscle weakness he has been living with for many years. When he is not on the road, he writes about his "life with PEG" on his own blog. On REHACARE.com he tells us how he rolls otherwise.
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Photo: A speech computer is on display at REHACARE; Copyright: Messe Düsseldorf / ctillmann

Messe Düsseldorf / ctillmann

Digital assistive technologies: Modern tools to make life more accessible

13.07.2022

People with disabilities often rely on assistance in different ways. Whether it's speech computers, screen readers, i.e. software that vocalizes on-screen texts, or special power wheelchairs – what all assistance has in common here is that it works thanks to digital components.
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Photo: a person with the right hand in a plaster cast smears himself a roll with the help of his left hand and a special eating board; Copyright: Ornamin

Ornamin

Small things that have big benefits: daily living aids help make everyday life easier

27.06.2022

Opening a jar or getting on a bike to ride to the store: small things that many of us around the world do every day and tend to take for granted. But these activities are not a matter of course for everyone. Daily living aids can make a big difference to people with disabilities in making their lives easier.
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Photo: Two women at the beach in an accesssible mudflat vehicle; Copyright: ostfriesland.travel

ostfriesland.travel

Accessible trip planning: City sightseeing or active travel adventures?

22.06.2022

How do you want to spend your annual summer vacation? Are you headed for the beach or is skiing in the mountains more your style? No matter the destination, most people use their vacation time for a relaxing escape. Unfortunately, planning a trip can be stressful and is especially challenging for people with disabilities, as they must find accessible accommodations and inclusive destinations.
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Photo: an inclusive sailboat with a man in front and a woman behind. The woman is missing her arms and steers with her feet; Copyright: Andrea Francolini-www.afrancolini.com

Andrea Francolini-www.afrancolini.com

Inclusion in water sports: "Disability is no longer an issue once you get in the boat"

13.06.2022

What does inclusive sailing entail? Just ask Elke Paatz. She practically grew up on a sailboat and has become disabled as the result of a sports accident. Paatz is the contact person for inclusive (adaptive) sailing on behalf of the German Sailing Federation (German: Deutscher Segler Verband), DSV.
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Photo: a man in a wheelchair on a promenade at the beach; Copyright: seventyfourimages

seventyfourimages

The joy of water sports includes people with disabilities

27.05.2022

Water sports such as diving, sailing, or kiteboarding evoke a feeling of freedom! You don’t have to travel the five oceans of the world to get in on the fun. Depending on the type of sport, your local man-made lake or public swimming pool can also do the trick.
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Photo: Elena Zubiaurre standing on a yard, looking to the camera; Copyright: Elena Zubiaurre / private

Elena Zubiaurre / privat

Elena Zubiaurre – That's how she rolls

04.05.2022

Living with an invisible disability – Elena Zubiaurre knows how it feels. She lives with multiple sclerosis (MS). But strangers don't see it. That's why she would like society to be more careful and attentive. She tells REHACARE.com which everyday aids and auxiliary means should also be invented and why home office and mandatory masks are a blessing for her.
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Photo: A woman sitting infront of a Dot Pad, her hand touching the braille surface; Copyright: Dot Incorporation

Dot Incorporation

People with vision impairments: The Dot Pad bridges the information gap

21.04.2022

The new Dot Pad is not only smaller and lighter, but also much cheaper than conventional tactile displays – making them more affordable and accessible for people with vision impairments. Dot Inc makes the online world of images more accessible and aims to improve other areas as well. In our interview the Senior Manager Mergel Takam talks about the advantages and technology behind the Dot Pad.
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Photo: Dietmar Sen with crossed arms, looking to the camera; Copyright: Niklas Arnold Photography

Niklas Arnold Photography

Dietmar Sen – That's how he rolls

20.04.2022

Dietmar Sen doesn't want to have to hide or be ashamed of his weaknesses. His message: "Let's be authentic!" He tells REHACARE.com which things he wishes for and what he misses from his youth.
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Photo: Alina Esleben smiling, looking to the right; Copyright: Yvy Anheier

Yvy Anheier

Alina Esleben – That's how she rolls

06.04.2022

Instead of new assistive devices, Alina Esleben would like to see a normalization of accessible public spaces and transportation. On REHACARE.com she shares her thoughts on local production within the assistive technology industry and how she rolls otherwise.
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Photo: a white-haired gentleman fashionably dressed in ocher tones in a wheelchair. Behind him is someone, also in ocher tones, with his hands on the wheelchair; Copyright: PantherMedia / HayDmitriy

PantherMedia / HayDmitriy

Adaptive clothing: designed to fit

28.03.2022

Clothes should fit comfortably. They should make you feel great and be easy to put on and take off. Unfortunately, many "off-the-rack" clothes don’t meet these criteria. Those who don’t sport the measurements of the average woman or man find themselves at a distinct disadvantage. This includes people who use wheelchairs and people with restricted mobility.
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Photo: A Woman wearing a black summer dress and a ventilator sits on the beach in her electric wheelchair; Copyright: private

privat

Natalie Pinnisch – That's how she rolls

09.03.2022

Getting away from everyday life, exploring the world, going to concerts and bars with friends – Natalie Pinnisch enjoys her self-determined life to the fullest and doesn't let her neuromuscular disease stop her. On REHACARE.com the 35-year-old from Hamburg reveals what she considers a great day and how she rolls otherwise.
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Photo: a toilet in white in front of black tiles. To the right and left of it are grab bars; Copyright: PantherMedia/bitpics

PantherMedia/bitpics

Accessible bathrooms: fostering and maintaining greater autonomy and independence

28.02.2022

For most people, the bathroom is their happy place and sanctuary – which is why it is important to remove any barriers for safety, ease, and comfort. Unfortunately, this is not always a given when it comes to people with disabilities. Unless you live in a new building, you may have to remodel bathrooms and toilet rooms to accommodate your special needs.
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Photo: Three men, three generations. The oldest man sits in a wheelchair, the younger men sit on the couch in front of a TV; Copyright: PantherMedia / Andriy Popov

PantherMedia / Andriy Popov

Accessible housing: a win-win situation

28.02.2022

Many homes and apartments are not accessible to people with disabilities. For years, builders of larger accommodations must comply with corresponding accessible design and construction requirements. Getting into an accessibility mindset right from the start benefits everyone!
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Photo: Three male researchers standing in a laboratory and looking straight into the camera; Copyright: University of Chicago

University of Chicago

Prosthetics: stretchable pressure sensor could lead to better robotics

20.12.2021

In the future, soft robotic hands with advanced sensors could help diagnose and care for patients or act as more lifelike prostheses.
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Photo: a young woman with long brown hair – CassMae – wearing a red jacket. The rest of her surrounding is held in blue; Copyright: Udo Fischer | nunsichtbar.de

Udo Fischer | nunsichtbar.de

Cassandra Mae Spittmann – That's how she rolls

01.12.2021

Cassandra Mae Spittmann discovered the world of rhythm at the age of two. While she started out playing the tabla with her feet, the 19-year-old now elicits the notes with her hands. She has remained true to her preference for Indian music. With her voice and her songs, however, she is reaching an ever-growing audience worldwide. At REHACARE.com she tells us how she rolls otherwise.
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Photo: A young woman with pink hair in a glittery top sits on a meadow; Copyright: private

privat

Anna Fee – That's how she rolls

17.11.2021

If society doesn't provide accessibility, people have to do it themselves. That's why, Anna Fee has not only become active in the field of fashion. What "going your own path" means to her, why a flight was her greatest adventure to date and how she rolls otherwise, she tells us at REHACARE.com.
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Photo: an elderly couple sitting in their apartment, the LiftonTRIO home elevator can be seen in the background; Copyright: Liftstar GmbH

Liftstar GmbH

Stylish and innovative design: taking it to the top with the Lifton home elevator

11.11.2021

Raúl Krauthausen recently discovered how much an elevator can make your life easier and add accessibility to your home. These days, the disability rights activist uses the LiftonTRIO Home Elevator from Lifton GmbH to navigate his apartment in Berlin. Reason enough for REHACARE.com to ask the Liftstar Group what makes the Lifton home elevator so different from other systems.
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Photo: a blind man is reading a book with braille characters; Copyright: dzb lesen

dzb lesen

Touch, hear, participate: Assistive technology helps conquer visual impairment

28.10.2021

Blindness or visual impairment means a loss or partial loss of the sense of sight. What it doesn't mean is that those who are impacted by this must aim lower or feel inferior. An abundance of vision aids does a fantastic job of replacing the sense of sight in the best way possible.
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Photo: Title photo

KEMPF

Converted and safe: Mobile with your own car

15.09.2021

For people with disabilities in particular having their own vehicle is incredibly important for their mobility. Whether behind the wheel themselves or for the safe transportation of people with disabilities – the conversion industry always has suitable solutions at the ready. We asked our exhibitors what new, innovative products they have in their portfolio in terms of mobility.
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Photo: A wheelchair user rides on cobblestones toward a larger crowd at a market; Copyright: Lukas Kapfer | www.th-10.de

Lukas Kapfer | www.th-10.de

Full participation: paving the way to an inclusive society

31.05.2021

Whether it affects cultural, political, economic, or social life – people with disabilities have a right to participation. This was recognized and stipulated in the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. But how is society as a whole implementing this directive? How are inclusion and participation put into practice and what role do companies play in promoting diversity?
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Photo: ; Copyright: Andi Weiland | Boehringer Ingelheim, Gesellschaftsbilder.de

Andi Weiland | Boehringer Ingelheim, Gesellschaftsbilder.de

Assistive devices in the workplace: Making communication accessible

26.04.2021

Especially for blind and visually impaired people, the lack of or non-working augmentative communication devices frequently means that they have no prospect of participating in the workplace. We discussed with Bruno Behrendt from Papenmeier why screen readers are sometimes nothing more than pretty tools and learned why technical support is THE perennial issue when it comes to customer service.
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Photo: Close-up of a wheelchair user in front of a Myd'l ramp; Copyright: Myd'l

Myd'l

Myd'l: Diverse, innovative and individual – ramps for all occasions

28.01.2021

Shopping – especially in city centers – can quickly turn from pleasure to frustration. Namely, when stores are only accessible via one or more steps. The French company Myd'l has a solution ready for every barrier in terms of accessibility – whether private or business. Successfully active in international business for 22 years, the manufacturer now also offers its products in Germany.
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Photo: a young woman in a red dress is sitting in a black wheelchair, the sea is in the background; Copyright: Ines Zeifert

Ines Zeifert

Lilli Zeifert – That's how she rolls

27.01.2021

Lilli Zeifert has already seen a lot of the world. Perhaps that's why her great love is for what there is still to discover beyond the Earth: Whatever there is to find out about astrophysics – Lilli wants to know. Who she thinks are the smartest minds of all time, what she would like to discuss with them and how she otherwise rolls, she tells us on REHACARE.com.
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Photo: a man with brown hair a beard – Lionel Messi – smiles and holds a small OrCam towards the camera; Copyright: OrCam

OrCam

Lionel Messi and OrCam: Enhancing self-determination in the lives of people with visual impairments

10.12.2020

Off the soccer field, professional footballer Lionel Messi is known for his commercials for Pepsi, Lay's or Dolce & Gabbana. Now he has also become the brand ambassador for OrCam MyEye and shines a bright light on this unique assistive technology. Why did the two decide to form this rather unusual partnership?
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Photo: Woman in power wheelchair X8 in the mountains, in the background the mountain panorama of the Zugspitze; Copyright: Sunrise Medical

Sunrise Medical

Accessible hiking in the mountains: The X8 off-road power wheelchair takes users to the top

03.11.2020

From the valley to the hut in a wheelchair – and no shuttle bus or mountain railway required. Wheelchair manufacturer Sunrise Medical teamed up with various partners as part of a joint initiative to turn this idea into a reality.
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Photo: Man in wheelchair is together with his wife in an accessible hotel room; Copyright: Heidehotel Bad Bevensen@FDS Hotel gGmbH

Heidehotel Bad Bevensen@FDS Hotel gGmbH

Accessible travel: Hotels for everyone

02.04.2020

When people with disabilities plan a trip, accessible accommodations are typically a critical aspect to consider. Both the hotel room and the surroundings should offer all the typical amenities, but also address the person’s special needs. REHACARE.com showcases three hotels that want to facilitate comfort and ease, especially for people with mobility disabilities.
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Photo: A hand controlling smart home options on a tablet; Copyright: PantherMedia/aa-w

PantherMedia/aa-w

Safe smart living and aging in place

07.01.2020

Our living space reveals a lot about us. It undergoes many changes as the years go by and – with any luck - adapts to our circumstances. Sooner or later accessibility becomes an important issue for all of us. When it comes to our own four walls, this may consist of technology that enables us to live a self-determined life or may involve smart home devices and assistance systems.
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Photo: Peter Lammer at REHACARE 2019; Copyright: beta-web

beta-web

Standing Ovation facilitates mobility at the workplace

12.12.2019

Sitting while standing up – Standing Ovation makes this oxymoron possible. The rail system with its C-shaped seat bar and seat lifting unit allows Austrian chef Peter Lammer to sustain his job despite an 80 percent disability rating pertaining to his legs. With REHACARE.com he talked about the invention that brought back his zest for life and the feedback he received at this year's trade fair.
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Photo: Patrick Mayer in the German TV show

VOX / TVNOW / Frank W. Hempel

Mobility: Overcoming barriers with Wheelblades

28.11.2019

Whether they are on vacation in the mountains or brave winter weather at home – people with mobility impairments want to take precautions to arrive safely at their destination. Patrick Mayer is personally affected by disability and developed two products that enable wheelchair and walking aid users to master these situations: Wheelblades and the SafetyFoot.
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Photo: Male with VR glasses, in the background you can see on screen what he is doing; Copyright: beta-web

beta-web

Career of the future: Accessibility Professional

14.11.2019

(Digital) accessibility is no longer a niche market and there is an increasing demand for skilled talent. That’s why many countries have already sought the support of the International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP). Soon there will be a Chapter that serves the German-speaking community called the IAAP DACH Chapter.
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Photo: Michel Arriens and Franziska Stoldt sitting in front of their VW Bulli bus on a camping site; Copyright: private

privat

Modifications: Self-determined mobility thanks to accessible VW Bulli Bus

01.07.2019

Whether it’s for their professional life or to travel – many people with disabilities need a car that provides mobility without limits. A small car is often unable to accommodate unique needs. That’s when you need a bigger vehicle – like a minivan.
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Photo: Title photo

A new level of accessibility – Gaming with the Microsoft Adaptive Controller

19.06.2019

Explore old temples, become soccer world champion, fight space battles – video games make a lot of things possible. But still, complex controls and a one-size-fits-all hardware keep people with disabilities from fully enjoying games. We visited the gamer Melanie Eilert and took a look at the Microsoft Adaptive Controller that supports her in Xbox gaming.
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Customers with disabilities demand diverse accessible concepts

01.04.2016

Let’s assess the situation: we asked around the social networks. What do people with different types of disabilities experience day-to-day when they go shopping? We wanted to find out what barriers they encounter, how they deal with them and what they expect from the retail industry.
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How can I help you? – An accessible shopping experience please!

01.04.2016

Wide aisles, a lot of room between the shelves, non-slip flooring and easy-to-read price tags – this is especially important for senior citizens and persons with disabilities when they shop. But in the real world, things are often very different: shopping carts that are hard to maneuver, narrow checkout aisles or undersized dressing rooms are all too common.
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