My dad is a disabled veteran and would like to try kayaking. How can he with use of one arm?

Question

He can only grip with his right arm for about 10 seconds before intense pain begins and he can't handle any weight with it. How can we get him kayaking with the rest of the family on vacation? He really wants to and he is an experience boater.

Answer 1

One arm paddling device.

http://mielsvr2.ecs.umass.edu/at/project...

http://search.yahoo.com/search?p=one+arm...

Answer 2

Firstuse a 2-man kayak. Then have him determine where he wants to sit. Then have the other person do the steering. Have him do what he can at first and more as time goes on. Start with lake water and not swift streams. . He should be able to grip a light paddle with his left hand and just balance it with the right. Use a canoe paddle so he just has to dip on one side.Maybe you could design a glove that would help him hold the paddle.

Answer 3

Check out manufacturer Hobie who produces a kayak propelled by your feet pedalling or by sail. I have seen them at the Southampton Boat show and I am sure they will be at the London one in Jan 07. I have listed their website details below.

Please ensure you also buy the correct safety equipment and your buoyancy aid fits you correctly to prevent any disasters.

Good Luck and Safe Kayaking!

Answer 4

The answers before me are great responses and I would like to suggest to that since your dad is a disabled vet, I believe that he is seeing a doctor or a physical therapist at a VA clinic or hospital. Have your dad speak to them about it. My old ARMY injury came back and I scuba dive and I have been using a cane for two years now and I spoke to my  physical therapist and she liked the idea that I stay active and issued me a collapable cane to use while walking into the water for shore dives and then I fold it up and strap it to my arm or leg.

Good Luck