Ideas for dads who use a mobility scooter or power wheelchair
It’s almost time to celebrate dear old dad for all that good advice and memorable adventures. Father’s Day is June 20. Do you have plans yet? If not, no sweat. We have some mobility device-friendly Father’s Day ideas that you can still get on the calendar.
If dad uses a power wheelchair or mobility scooter your options are plentiful thanks to accessibility laws. With any of these suggestions, be sure to do your own research for your specific destination. You may have to do some advance planning to get dad’s chair or scooter there. Luckily, many Pride Mobility models fold up or stow away easily.
If television has taught us anything, dads love grilling. For Father’s Day, try prying that long metal spatula from his grasp. [1] It’s your turn to flip some burgers and tantalize your family’s taste buds. WIth you managing the grill, dad’s job is to take it easy.
The beauty of a cookout is you can have it at home or at public places like parks or beaches. When picking your location, double check that there is space for dad to navigate.
For many people, dad was their first fishing buddy. Whether you’re constantly hanging up your “Gone Fishin'” sign or your pole long ago, Father’s Day is a great time to get out there.
If you qualify as an amatuer angler, you can make this fishing trip simple. Find a local pond or lake with a sturdy dock. That way, you, dad and any other fishermen can safely set up camp. Dad will be able to comfortably sit in his chair and watch for bites.
Going out into the open water to fish is much more dependent on your access to a boat. If you have a large boat, or a friend with a large boat, bringing the mobility device on board may mean smooth sailing.
Regardless of where you fish, remember mobility devices have electronic components. Make sure to keep the control panel dry.
Catch a ballgame
Take dad out to the ball game. Buy dad some peanuts and Cracker Jacks. He won’t care if he ever gets back.
All modern Major League baseball stadiums in the US are wheelchair accessible. Older parks like Boston’s Fenway Park, Chicago’s Wrigley Field, and LA’s Dodger Stadium, have made improvements to accessibility in recent decades.
For the best experience, you should research your team’s stadium. That way you’ll get the right tickets, know how to get to your seats and where to park.
Minor league or independent ball clubs will also likely have accessibility for dad. We recommend looking into any stadium in advance so you aren’t met with surprises on game day.
If Father’s Day brings nice weather, why not get outside with dad? Many cities and states have well-maintained walking paths. There are paved, crushed stone and dirt paths. If dad is using a power chair like a Jazzy or a scooter like the Victory, any of these surfaces will be conducive to a Father’s Day jaunt.
If you’re lucky enough to have one nearby, many national parks have accessible facilities and attractions. The National Park Service is committed to accessibility. You can visit its website for specifics about wheelchair access at any national park.
Enjoy nature with the grandkids
If dad also goes by grandpa, you’ve got to include your kids in the plans. We dare you to try not to. Outdoor activities that allow kids to burn off their energy are always nice to do on the weekend.
Gather up the whole family to visit a park or playground. The children can play and romp. The adults can watch or join in, while dad participates from his mobility device. Like the trails mentioned above, many parks – especially state parks – offer accessible features like fishing piers, paved paths and comfortable bathrooms.
The real gift of Father’s Day is spending time together. Wherever you go and whatever you do, take a moment to enjoy him.