Health Equipment For Farmers Who Use Wheelchairs

Recently, the first truck-mounted wheelchair-lift was installed in a North Country farmer's pick-up truck. The lift has a seat that moves vertically on a mast and horizontally on a "boom." After transferring from his wheelchair to the lift-seat, the farmer can use six control buttons to move from his wheelchair to his pick-up truck seat, seat himself in the pick-up, drive to his tractor or combine, and transfer from the truck to the equipment he needs to use.

The versatility of this wheelchair lift is impressive. Although expensive, it was paid for by Vocational and Educational Services for Individuals with Disabilities (VESID), a New York State agency that funds services for people with disabilities. Many farmers, farm-workers, and farm family members are eligible for services through this agency.

Some New York dairy farmers who use wheelchairs have figured out ways they can milk cows. Standing wheelchairs, track-mounted seats in the milking parlor pit, and mini-elevators that carry a person in a wheelchair down into expensive, it was paid for by Vocational and Educational Services for Individuals with Disabilities (VESID), a New York State agency that funds services for people with disabilities. Many farmers, farm-workers, and farm family members are eligible for services through this agency.

Some New York dairy farmers who use wheelchairs have figured out ways they can milk cows. Standing wheelchairs, track-mounted seats in the milking parlor pit, and mini-elevators that carry a person in a wheelchair down into the pit are examples of specialized equipment that can be purchased for the farmer or farm worker through VESID.

Specialized wheelchairs can be helpful in getting around on rough terrain. The "Freedom One," a special wheelchair made for farmers, is built on a Wheelhorse tractor frame. It can push and pull loads, get through mud puddles, and maneuver in small spaces.

Farmers who are wheelchair users often need specialized equipment to help them do their farm work. The FarmAbility office at 330 Riley-Robb Hall, Cornell University, Ithaca, N.Y. 14853, can provide information for people who are eligible for assistance from VESID to purchase such equipment. Our phone number is (607)255-0150. Or call your county Cornell Cooperative Extension office and ask them to call us on your behalf.

Publication #: 28302615