Here is an interesting suggestion for the active wheelchair user. Why not add a GPS unit to your wheelchair? With the cost of portable GPS devices ridiculously inexpensive, it makes a lot of sense to trick out your chair with this accessory. Consider a model with voice prompted turn-by-turn instructions.

Let’s propose the following scenario. You take a trip to a mall using the city bus. During the bus ride you are able to pinpoint your location along the way. You don’t need to strain to see when your stop is coming up to give the driver enough notice. Arriving at your destination, the GPS system will help you navigate the unfamiliar area. After completing your shopping, you exit the mall but find yourself on a different street. You must have come out of a different entrance. With a GPS device mounted to your wheelchair, you do not get disoriented and quickly find your way.

When purchasing a new car, pass on the navigation package. Instead, purchase an aftermarket unit that you can transfer to your wheelchair. It’s a good idea to arrange for a way to mount it easily to the chair. Sure beats having the unit sit on your lap where it is difficult to view and can easily fall down.

If you are a power wheelchair user and are good with electronics (or know someone who is), consider creating a power adapter allowing the GPS unit to be powered from the chair’s batteries. Just make sure you aren’t voiding any warranties (both for the chair and the GPS unit).