Living well
Getting back to the hobbies you gave up
Most people quietly drop the things they love one at a time. Almost all of them can come back with a little rethinking.
By David Ellison
Senior mobility editor · Updated
Start with the one you miss most
Write down the three things you've stopped doing that you miss. For each one, ask what actually stopped you: distance, standing, carrying, getting in the car, or worry about a restroom. That's the thing to solve — not the hobby itself.
Gardening
Raised beds at 24 to 30 inches let you garden seated or from a walker. Long-handled, lightweight tools, a rolling garden seat and a hose reel mounted at waist height do the rest. Container gardens on a patio count too.
Fishing, church, games and gatherings
Many state parks have accessible fishing piers — search your state's parks website. Churches often have reserved spaces for wheelchairs if you ask. At the grandkids' games, a lightweight folding chair or power chair that goes on grass means you watch from the sideline, not the car.
Questions to ask before you go
- How far is it from parking to where I'll sit?
- Is the ground paved, grass or gravel?
- Where is the nearest accessible restroom?
- Is there shade and a place to sit if I need a break?
- Can my chair or walker fit in the car with everything else?
Travel
Cruises, national parks and many cities are far more accessible than they were twenty years ago. The America the Beautiful Access Pass gives free lifetime entry to national parks for people with permanent disabilities. Our flying guide covers airplanes in detail.
This guide is general information, not medical advice. Talk with your doctor, physical therapist or occupational therapist about what's right for you.