Many people with Parkinson’s Disease struggle with getting out of a car. It’s so sad to hear someone can’t participate in a class or get to an appointment for the sole reason it takes too long to get in or out of a car. This could be due to freezing, loss of strength or agility due to PD.
If you have freezing with PD, I have some tips to help you get out of a car that are good for you to know as well as loved-ones trying to help but can’t physically lift the other person.
Watch this short video to see how to help yourself or someone else with PD get out of a car.
The products I talk about in this video are the Handybar and the Auto Swivel Seat Cushion. The Handybar (there are other cheaper brands) that fits in your door and acts like a handle to grab and push down on. The “Auto Swivel Seat Cushion” that swivels and pivots 360 degrees making it easier to swing your hips and legs out of the car. It also makes checking your mirrors and blind spots easier if you have limited neck mobility. These cushions sell for anywhere from $16 to $60 depending if you want gel or special fabric. In my observation many of these are covered with fabric which may add friction making it harder to “slide” out. Look for the slickest material possible. I have found these 2 items sold together as a “mobility set” pricing about $60.