GPS Navigator

I use a GPS navigator in my car to help me, or to help someone who is driving me, to navigate. It is hard for me to express "left" or "right" to my driver, so a GPS can say it for me. 

These devices are available in many new cars, or there are portable ones available in many electronic stores or on Amazon.

CamelBak Bottle with Bite Valve

I found these CamelBak bottles very easy to use.  Even though I only can use one hand, I can open and close them using my teeth on the plastic handle.  This helps when I am filling and emptying the bottle.

Here is more about the product:

Amazon Product Description:  The CamelBak Better Bottle represents a new standard of performance and convenience in re-usable water bottles. Available in multiple colors and in three sizes--1 liter, 0.75 liter, and 0.5 liter--this innovative bottle is also BPA- and Phthalate-free. The bottle's integrated handle makes it easy to carry with the crook of a finger or clip to a backpack with a carabiner. CamelBak's Big Bite Valve offers a proven design that contains no moving parts--just bite and sip for easy hydration. The cap fits most other bottles and the Better Bottle attaches to most water filters and fits in most cup holders. It's dishwasher safe.

Amazon sells these, please follow this link:  here

Sling Backpack

Because I have use of only one of my arms I found that regular bags or purses didn't work for me.  Instead I use this sling back pack.  It holds everything I need and is easy for me to get into.  


This versatile sling pack can be worn on your left or right shoulder by just adjusting the strap for the perfect fit.


Some manufacturers are:  Eddie Bauer, Under Armour and Nike.

Amazon sells these, please follow this link: here.

Sling Pack

Musical Ear Plugs

I found I was having problems hearing in restaurants. The background noise can be overwhelming.  A friend from my Stroke Support group recommended these special ear plugs that musician's wear during concerts.  They work great and I now take them everywhere I go.

To purchase these try the following links:  Guitar Center or  Amazon here.

This link has information on how the earplugs work:  understanding earplugs

Driver License - California

I got my driver license back in the summer of 2009, two years after my stroke.

Friends helped me to re-learn how to drive. They went with me to practice and helped give me confidence as I learned to use my left foot and left hand. I got a steering knob to help me drive with just my left hand.

Some communities have driving classes for stroke survivors. Ask at your local rehabilitation hospital for references.

After I became confident behind the wheel, I had to complete several steps in order to regain my license.

First, I had to be cleared by my doctor. I had to complete California Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) form DS-326 Driver Medical Evaluation. Check with your state's DMV for specific requirements.

Finally, I had to be interviewed by a safety officer at the DMV. And, of course I had to re-take my eye exam and behind-the-wheel driving test.  I was able to pass the test!

My license expired a year after I got it.  I took an on-line defensive driving course.  I went back and took the written test. It was close but I made it!  My license doesn't expire until 2015!

Steering knob

One of my biggest acheivements was earning my driver license again after I had my stroke.  I use my left foot to work the pedals, but steering one-handed was a challange.

I bought this steering knob from Amazon. It makes turning the steering wheel very easy with one hand. I drive myself everywhere now, even on road trips!

Fingerless Gloves

This Fingerless Gloves is good for one-handed use. You can find it at Amazon or Wristies.

Target

Wristies

Sunscreen Towelettes

This Sunscreen Towelettes is good for one-handed use. You can find it at Amazon.com.