September 05, 2002

Genesis Celebrates Rehab Week With FREE Wheelchair Tune Up

Genesis Medical Center's Physical Rehabilitation Program, in conjunction with Continuing Care Specialists, will host a free Wheelchair and Walker Tune-up Clinic as part of the 2002 National Rehabilitation Awareness Celebration. 

"Adaptive equipment such as walkers and wheelchairs are used by people of all ages to increase mobility and independence," says Jan King, Director of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation for Genesis Medical Center. "These items may be used a short time, stored in a closet and then later passed on to a friend or family member in need. In some cases, these items are used every day for many years." 

Routine maintenance and repairs are often overlooked, leading to potential safety hazards. The Genesis Rehab Team is planning to celebrate National Rehabilitation Awareness Week by providing this free service to individuals who use such equipment. 

King adds, "We also want to make people aware that most of these items are made with weight limitations - that is they could fail to function properly or break if used by someone weighing more than the specified amount. To use borrowed items safely, make sure you know what the limitations are." 

The Wheelchair and Walker Tune-up Clinic will take place on Thursday, September 19, from 1-4 p.m., at the Medic EMS garage, 2202 Marquette Street, which is located on Genesis Medical Center's West campus. This free check up will include an inspection, cleaning, minor adjustments and repairs. Pre-registration is preferred, but not required. For more information or to register for this event, call Genesis On Call at 421-2000 or 800-383-2575.

National Rehabilitation Awareness Week is designed to promote the value of rehabilitation; highlight the capabilities of people with disabilities; to salute the professionals who provide service to people with disabilities; and to renew our nation's commitment to fulfill the unmet needs of people with disabilities.

For more information regarding the Genesis Regional Rehabilitation Program or National Rehabilitation Week, contact the Genesis Medical Center's Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Department at 563-421-1425.