Ask people with disabilities—when purchasing a handicap or accessible van—size matters. The full-sized van is a good option for those with a large family, those who travel often, those with additional equipment and accessories, those who need to tow large loads, or big or tall passengers or drivers.

We read a lot about handicap minivans and full-size vans, but how about an accessible RV? If you travel often and find accessible hotels not so wheelchair friendly or you have a distaste of flying, an accessible motorhome could be a solution. Finances permitting, you could buy a new or used RV and have the conversion equipment you need installed.

A mobility equipment dealer can modify your new or used RV with whatever you require. The most common type of customization involves installing a wheelchair lift and widening the vehicle’s entrance and interior aisles to accommodate the wheelchair’s width.

Disabled Sports USA (DSUSA), one of the nation’s largest multi-sport, multi-disability organizations, has announced the schedule for its 2012 national SkiTour. The only program of its kind, it ensures opportunities for wounded warriors, youth and adults with disabilities to receive advanced instruction and state-of-the-art adaptive equipment at ski destinations throughout the nation including Breckenridge, Sun Valley, Aspen, Stowe, Park City, and Tahoe.

In 2012, the Abilities Expo has scheduled 6 exhibitions across the country for people with disabilities. The first will be in Atlanta Feb. 17-19.

This unique exhibition displays the latest accessible products and services to people with physical disabilities, their families, seniors, caregivers, healthcare professionals, people with vision and hearing impairments and those with developmental disabilities.

Wheelchair accessible vans are not just for people with disabilities. An accessible vehicle can ease the pain of driving if you suffer from arthritis or other joint diseases. It’s the little things about your car that can be excruciating—like getting into it, fastening your seat belt, turning the key to start the engine, steering, reversing, etc.