Wheels in Motion — March 2026

Assistive Technology & Independence: A Veteran-to-Veteran Series Charlie Merritt is a United States Marine Veteran and advocate for veterans living with spinal cord injuries and has spent years working alongside the disability community helping individuals find technology that supports independence and everyday living. He remains passionate about connecting veterans with resources that help them stay active, engaged, and connected. Article 1: Fighting for Independence — Assistive Technology Then, Now, and What’s Coming Next If you live with a spinal cord injury, you already know independence looks different after injury. The truth is, most of us had to relearn how to do things we never thought twice about before — turning on lights, using a phone, getting online, or even playing a game with friends. That’s where assistive technology comes in. And if you haven’t explored what’s available lately, you might be surprised by how far it’s come. Assistive technology is simply equipment or software that helps us do everyday tasks. But for many of us, it’s not just equipment — it’s freedom. It’s privacy. It’s being able to do things on our own terms again.

What’s Out There Right Now The good news is that today’s technology is moving fast, and a lot of it is designed with independence in mind. Mobility and Home Control Power chairs today are light years ahead of what they used to be. We’re seeing advanced seating systems, standing features, and pressure management technology that helps keep us healthier long term. Then there’s smart home tech. Being able to control lights, TVs, thermostats, doors, and security systems through voice commands or alternative access devices is a game changer. It reduces reliance on caregivers and gives back a level of control many of us lost after injury. Communication and Computer Access For veterans with limited hand function, technology like eye-tracking systems or alternative controllers allows full computer access. That means email, work opportunities, social media, education, and staying connected with family and fellow veterans. Adaptive Gaming and Recreation Gaming might sound like entertainment — but for a lot of us, it’s connection. It’s competition. It’s stress relief. It’s sometimes therapy without calling it therapy. Adaptive gaming equipment is opening doors for veterans to reconnect with hobbies and communities that are huge for mental health.

What’s Coming Down the Road The future is honestly pretty incredible. Researchers are working on:

• Brain-computer interfaces

• Wearable robotic exoskeletons

• AI-driven smart home systems

• More advanced voice and eye tracking Continued on Next Page

Central Florida Women’s Group WE ARE GROWING! PVA Central FL Women’s Group On February 24th 2026, we gathered at CANVAS Restaurant for a women’s luncheon. 12 women showed up and we had a wonderful lunch followed by a discussion to plan future gatherings. We are looking to host the next “MEET-UP” in April! Keep an eye on the April WIM for all the details! We invite any woman involved with PVA. All women members, caregivers, staff & volunteers may join us! We are hopeful in the future to have more women participating in our events and get to know you! All outings are paid for by the Chapter unless otherwise noted. Thank you for an amazing day, we can’t wait to see you all again! If you have any ideas, or you want more information about how to join in the fun, please contact Amy Patterson, Women’s Coordinator at 304 672 5402, or call the chapter office.

Am y S. Patters on

HAPPY ST. PATRICK’S DAY! A WORD ...Continued from Previous Page

• Virtual reality rehab and training tools Some of this sounds like science fiction, but pieces of it are already being tested and used today

The Bottom Line There’s no single “best” assistive technology. The right solution depends on your goals, your injury level, and how you live your life. The biggest mistake veterans make is assuming technology hasn’t improved since they were first injured. Over the years, I’ve worked with a lot of veterans who didn’t realize how much technology had advanced since their initial injury or rehab. Sometimes it just takes someone helping translate what’s available and how it can fit your lifestyle. If you ever have questions about assistive technology options or where to start, I’m always willing to share insight or point you in the right direction. In our next article, we’ll talk about something just as important as the equipment itself — how to actually get it, especially through the VA and nonprofit programs.