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Episode Overview

In this episode, Valerie sits down with Al Neary, a mobility and rehabilitation expert with nearly 40 years of experience, to discuss how thoughtful equipment choices and home planning can support dignity, independence, and long-term quality of life for individuals with disabilities.

Al shares practical insights for families navigating wheelchairs, seating, bathing, transfers, and home modifications—along with powerful stories that reframe mobility from limitation to possibility.

Meet Al Neary

• Founder and president of Maximum Mobility (est. 2007)
• Calgary native and longtime volunteer with CADS – Canadian Adaptive Snow Sports
• Specializes in pediatric and complex rehabilitation equipment
• Passionate advocate for function, safety, and inclusion

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

Mobility Is More Than a Wheelchair
A wheelchair is just one part of daily independence. Al explains the importance of complementary equipment such as lifts, commodes, shower chairs, hospital beds, grab bars, and change tables—to keep both individuals and caregivers safe.

Why Proper Seating Matters
Comfort, positioning, and support directly impact function, energy, and dignity. Al explains how customized seating enables independence and reduces physical and mental fatigue.

Follow-Up & Maintenance (Especially in Alberta)

• Pediatric equipment is reviewed regularly due to growth
• Adult equipment is user-driven—vendors cannot initiate follow-ups
• Families must track replacement timelines through AADL
• Routine servicing extends equipment life and improves daily function

Bathrooms, Transfers & Home Design
Commonly overlooked areas include:

• Bathroom size and layout
• True roll-in showers (no lip)
• Space for commode access
• Lighting, doorway width, and transfer zones

Early planning—before drywall or final layouts—can save money and stress.

Future-Proofing the Forever Home
Al emphasizes:

• Zero-threshold entries
• Wider doorways
• Ceiling lift planning
• Multiple accessible exits for safety

Accessible design can be beautiful, functional, and a strong resale asset.

Reframing Mobility
Mobility equipment is a tool, not a setback. Al shares moving stories of children gaining independence, inclusion, and confidence through the right supports.

“It’s not about what someone can’t do—it’s about giving them the tools to participate.”

Key Takeaways

• Think long-term, not just for today
• Involve professionals early
• Plan for growth, aging, and caregiver safety
• Focus on dignity, function, and inclusion
• 
  

Live with intention. Embrace the journey.
Thank you for listening to Forever Home for Our Kids with Disabilities.

Connect with Al Neary

🌐 www.maxmobility.ca
📞 403-769-6166
📧 ALN@maxmobility.ca

Connect with Valerie

info@foreverhomeconsulting.ca

Music Acknowledgement: Audio Coffee - Denys Kyshchuk

Editor: Scott Arbeau

Link for book: The S.H.I.N.E. Principle: The special needs mom's path to strength, hope and happiness by Valerie Arbeau

https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CW18ZXGX (Canada)

Learn more about your host at:
https://coachingwithvalerieanne.com/