Table extension compatible with motorised wheelchair
This is a common problem: the controls on the client’s motorised wheelchair wouldn’t fit under her dining table, and alterations to the chair or the table were out of the question. This extension can fit onto (almost) any table in seconds without the use of clamps etc.
The Challenge
As many users of motorised wheelchairs find, the controls on the client’s wheelchair wouldn’t allow her to get close to a desk or table because they fouled with the table structure and the thick table top. She wanted to eat at the table with the family but, because she was having to stretch to reach, often spilled food. It also made it very uncomfortable for her to use her sewing machine.
She assumed that no solution would be possible because she did not want to alter the table in any way or risk damaging it.
The solution
Metal brackets were attached to a board in such a way that the bottom brackets fit around the table structure. See photos. The extension is held in place purely by gravity, with no need for clamps. Adjustable pieces were added to the end of the bottom brackets to allow the extension to be set exactly level for a given thickness of table top, but in reality this refinement is not necessary: the extension could be fitted to almost any table in seconds with no adjustment.
The benefit
The client is now able to use her sewing machine – her main hobby – without discomfort, and is able to share meals with the family without having to stretch to reach her food.
- Skills involved:
- Issues Addressed:
- Activities Helped:
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- Solution:
