How Do I Select the Right Vehicle Modification for My Toyota Wheelchair Van?
Choosing the right adaptations for your Sienna wheelchair minivan will make all of the difference in world. Having a Toyota wheelchair van converted based upon your exact individual needs is the best way to maximize accessibility and to experience years of safe, comfortable driving. The process of selecting modifications should be based on three principals: Consultation, Information and Communication.
Consultation
You may know more about your personal experience than anyone in the world but that doesn't make you an expert on the subject of wheelchair van modifications. The information you have about your preferences, strengths and limitations will be integral to the process, but in order to do things the right way, you'll want to involve professionals.
One of the most important players in selecting the right modifications for your Toyota will be a qualified driving evaluator. Evaluators are specially trained to assess a driver's individual circumstances in order to determine which adaptations will allow them to get the most from their van.
A good evaluator will assess your strength, coordination, range of motion, reflexes, stamina and other physical factors involved in driving. He or she will also investigate your decision making and judgment as it applies to driving. That information will allow the evaluator to produce an extensive report outlining the adaptations that will best meet your individual needs.
Setting up a consultation shouldn't be particularly problematic. You can find a qualified evaluator through the Association for Driver Rehabilitation Services. Alternatively, you can secure a refer from a local rehabilitation office or the Department of Motor Vehicles. Many equipment dealers have certified professionals on their staffs, as well.
You'll also want to consult with the equipment dealer and the conversion company. Selecting and then completing modifications to your Toyota wheelchair van is a team process and everyone needs to share an understanding of your needs and vision.
Information
The information and recommendations generated by the evaluator will go your equipment dealer and/or conversion company. That isn't everything with which they must be supplied, however. In addition to the evaluator's report, they may want to measure you and your wheelchair to confirm your height in the chair, weight and other factors relevant to the modification process.
They also need to know what you want and expect.
Communication
You should see a common thread running through this outline of the modification selection process. You need to be an active communicator when preparing for the conversion of your Toyota wheelchair van. Open, honest and accurate communication is one of the best ways to get the best possible results.
Make a point of asking and answering questions at all levels. Make an effort to share your perspectives and expectations with everyone involved in the process. Converting a Sienna for wheelchair use isn't a cookie cutter proposition. Different people require different adaptations and you want to make sure that the final product of these efforts delivers exactly what you need it to deliver.
When everyone involved understands you and what you need, you're more likely to choose and experience the optimal mix of modifications for your Toyota wheelchair van.
You need to be involved in consultation with an evaluator, as well as those making the modifications and selling you the equipment. You must supply all parties with the best possible information at all stages of the adaptation process. A commitment to outstanding communication needs to be part of everything that happens, as well. If those three principals direct your selection of modifications, you're certain to find yourself behind the wheel of the perfect Toyota wheelchair van for you.
