DISABILITY ISSUES
Vol. 21 No. 1

Q & A

Q: Due to my disability, I don’t always get my food all the way to my mouth. I like to dress well and have ruined many a dress. I am tired of ordering lobster so I can wear a “Lobster Bib” and protect my dress. Do you know of any attractive bibs for me? Jane - Middletown, VT.

A: There is a company called AbleApparel which offers, at least, four creative solutions from velcro attached bandanas to gold and silver lame bibs which might interest you. For can visit them on-line at www. ableapparel.com or call for a catalog at (888) 688-ABLE (2253).

Q: My mother and father are older and don’t always remember their bills these days. Recently they nearly had their phone disconnected, which would be dangerous for them. Is there any way to have the phone company notify me of problems? Mary - Woburn, MA.

A: Under the regulations of the Massachusetts Department of Telecommunications and Energy (DTE) the phone provider may not discontinue service (without DTE approval) to households in which all the adults are 65 years of age or older. However, such households must identify themselves to the company. The customer may also designate a third party to receive copies of all past-due bills and other notices. The proper forms are available from all Verizon business offices.

Q: I have a conversion van but, like most people, I don’t always want to drive long distances when I travel for pleasure. Do you know how I can find wheelchair accessible vans to rent in various locations across the United States? Tim - Reno, NV.

A: There are a growing number of van rental outfits and many more of the large car rental agencies are renting adapted vehicles. For experience and expertise in the provision of wheelchair vans, however, you should know about Wheelchair Getaways. They have thirty offices in 23 states. They rent everything you are likely to need, sell used vans, and will even arrange pickup and delivery. You can call them at (800) 642-2042 or visit their web site: www.wheelchairgetaways.com.

Q: Can you recommend an information resource for a kid with disability? Rose - NYC, NY.

A: Exceptional Parent magazine’s web site at www.eparent.com. They have a great on-line resource directory.