Getting in and out of a car can become increasingly challenging as we age. Factors like car design and physical limitations can make this everyday task difficult. Fortunately, resources like AARP offer guidance and tools to make car entry and exit easier. One particularly helpful recommendation from experts, often highlighted by AARP, is the use of car door assist handles. Beyond tools, understanding car features and adopting specific techniques can significantly improve accessibility. Let’s explore key aspects of car design and practical tips, including the much-praised “Aarp Tool For Getting Out Of Car” – the car door assist handle.
Several elements of a car’s design impact how easy it is to enter and exit. Paying attention to these features when choosing a vehicle can make a significant difference in your daily comfort and ease of use.
Top of Door Height and Slope
The height and angle of the door opening are crucial. A taller door opening that is flat at the top allows for easier entry and exit with less bending and stooping. Conversely, vehicles like low-slung sports cars or some sedans often have lower and more angled door openings, requiring more contortion. SUVs and crossovers, especially boxier models, typically offer more generous and higher door openings, which can be beneficial for easier access.
Alt: A person demonstrating the adequate height of a car door opening for easy access, highlighting the flat top and tall opening which minimizes bending.
Base Height and Thickness
The height of the car floor from the ground and the thickness of the door sill (the saddle) are also important considerations. These dimensions determine how high you need to lift your legs to step into the car. Higher vehicles like truck-based SUVs with thick sills can pose a greater challenge compared to lower sedans or compact crossovers. Being mindful of base height and sill thickness is particularly important for older drivers or those with mobility concerns.
Alt: Close-up view of a car door sill showing its thickness and height relative to the ground, emphasizing how these dimensions influence the effort needed to step into the vehicle.
Steering Wheel Reach
The position of the steering wheel can also affect ease of entry and exit. A steering wheel that protrudes far into the passenger compartment can create an obstacle, requiring additional maneuvering and potentially causing strain. Some modern cars feature a power steering wheel that automatically moves up and inwards when the car is turned off, providing more space for entry and exit. This feature, which returns the wheel to a preset driving position when the car is started, can significantly enhance convenience.
Alt: Image showing a steering wheel automatically retracting towards the dashboard to create more space for easier entry and exit from a car.
Tips and Tools for Easier Car Entry and Exit
Regardless of your car’s design, there are practical tips and tools, some recommended as “aarp tool for getting out of car” solutions, to make getting in and out easier.
Invest in a Car Door Assist Handle: This portable and affordable tool is highly recommended by accessibility experts and is often cited as a top “aarp tool for getting out of car”. Costing around $10-$15, it slides into the striker plate on your car door jamb, providing an extra handle for support. This simple device offers leverage and stability, making it easier to pull yourself up or lower yourself down when entering or exiting the vehicle.
Alt: An individual utilizing a car door assist handle inserted into the car door striker to gain leverage and support while exiting a vehicle.
Swivel Technique: Instead of stepping into the footwell first, try sitting down in the seat first, and then swivel your legs inside. Reverse this process when exiting. This method enhances stability and allows you to use your arms for support if needed. Swivel seat cushions, similar to lazy Susans, are also available to further ease this motion. However, remember to remove these cushions before driving as they are not permanently fixed and could be unsafe during driving or in an accident.
Practice Balance: Regular balance exercises, such as those suggested by AARP, are beneficial. Practicing getting up and down from a chair and performing balance exercises can improve your overall stability and make car entry and exit easier. Good balance is crucial for safely managing these movements.
Take Your Time: If you experience low blood pressure or take medications that lower blood pressure, take your time when getting in and out of the car. Moving slowly helps prevent dizziness or fatigue. Just as you would when getting out of bed, allow yourself a moment to adjust and maintain your balance.
By considering car design features and utilizing helpful tools and techniques, including the highly recommended “aarp tool for getting out of car” like door assist handles, you can significantly improve the ease and safety of getting in and out of your vehicle, enhancing your overall driving experience and independence.
