On Fri, 23 Jan 2004 16:31:10 +0000 (UTC), "Neil"
wrote:

I have a disabled client for whom I am designing an easy access garden. I
was hoping that any disabled readers could pass on any tips, warnings or
comments that may help me get it right for him. Incidentally, he has just
walked to the South Pole despite having muscular dystrophy!
Thanks in advance,
Neil Faulkner
www.conceptgardens.com


I care for my father, who is disabled by muscular dystrophy.
You might consider contacting the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign
(www.muscular-dystrophy.org). They may be able to indicate some
general guidelines, or point you to other organisations who can. Note
that there are a considerable number of types of muscular dystrophy,
each of which affects the sufferer differently and also progressing
differently. I would say it is especially important to listen to your
client very carefully indeed - he is clearly a very determined sort of
character! If he has an Occupational Therapist or Physiotherapist,
they might appreciate being asked if they wish to comment, if your
client agrees.

Off the top of my head, I suggest:
1. Even if he does not use a wheelchair at the moment, allow for one -
no steps, limit the angle of any slopes, good solid non-slip surfaces,
no bits and pieces to trip over or bash knuckles or legs against,
space to turn. All these will help someone who is maybe still walking
with a stick or frame too. (Is he active in organisations for the
disabled? Friends may be in a wheelchair.)

2. This may not affect your client, but my father has difficulty
reaching to the ground from seated position on his electric scooter,
and also cannot reach above shoulder level - check what your client
wants to be able to do in the garden himself, set up to suit.

Reading this back, these things seem blindingly obvious and you will
have worked them out for yourself, I am sure.

Regards, VivienB