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Resources for People in Wheelchairs in Louisiana

According to the National Health Interview Survey on Disability, around 2 million Americans who live independently rely on wheelchairs. Most are senior citizens. Because people in wheelchairs have decreased mobility, many need assistance. In Louisiana, there are many resources the disabled can tap to make their lives a little easier.

  1. Wheelchairs and Accessories

    • Several companies in Louisiana sell wheelchairs and accessories. Premier Medical Equipment, Inc., in Lafayette sells power wheelchairs, manual wheelchairs and wheelchair cushions. There are also wheelchairs for rent. And Southern Medical Distributors, with locations throughout the state, rents wheelchair ramps--for a vacation or a medical emergency.

    Handicapped Parking

    • Individuals who require a wheelchair for mobility are eligible to apply for a handicapped license plate. To apply for a plate, the handicapped person and his physician must complete a DPSMV 1966 form--a medical examiner's certification of mobility impairment. This form can be obtained from the Office of Motor Vehicles or online. The form must be submitted, along with the registration and the original license plate, if the vehicle is registered in the handicapped person's name. In 2010, the plate fee is $10. The plate it is valid for 2 years. A handicapped mirror hanger, or a hang tag, is another option for disabled individuals. To apply for a hang tag, the DPSMV 1966 form must be submitted. In 2010, the hang tag fee is $3. The amount of time a hang tag can be used depends on the physician's diagnosis. The maximum time limit is 4 years.

    Wheelchair Activities

    • The Louisiana Lions Camp in Anacoco is a summer residential camp for the disabled. The camp is owned and operated by the Louisiana Lions League for Crippled Children, Inc. The camp is free for children with mental and physical disabilities. Parents can enroll their physically handicapped child in the camp by downloading and filling out the application on the Louisiana Lions Camp website.

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