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Does anyone know if this can be done? My mom is elderly but a good driver with excellent eyesight (I wish mine were as good as hers!), good reflexes. She has severe arthritis in her right wrist and cannot start the car - making that motion to turn the ignition is very painful. So she cannot drive her car without someone with her to turn the car on, she can turn it off OK, it seems to be holding the key in position until engine catches. Are there retrofit kits available? Is that something that could be done? Any ideas or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
How about installing a remote start system in her car. We have a late model GM car that we can start from the remote. It's designed to warm your car up on a cold day, or cool it off on a hot day, but could solve her problem.
There are aftermarket systems available. Check with any auto electronics store, like a stereo or alarm shop, or I know sears sells them. How to Buy a Remote Start System | eHow.com
Another thought is making a paddle to fit the head of the key, something to slip over the head of a key to give her much greater leverage when she starts it.
I like the idea of the "remote start" too. My other thought, though, if that doesn't prove to be a viable option, is they make a thing you can attach to a key just for people in this situation. It makes it easier to get more leverage with less pressure. Just google it and look on line. I bought one a couple of years ago. Don't remember the company's name, but again you can find it online. Just google something like "arthritic assistance devices" or something similar. I don't know if this would be enough of a help for her or not because still, SOME pressure is required, but it might be enough improvement for her. Might help her with other keys too.
Thanks for all the great advice and I will look into the key thing first. It's important to keep her independent and if it can be used or added to other keys that would be helpful too.
She likes the idea of the remote starter, at least for her other car up north, but doesn't think she needs it down here.
LOL some of you -- can you just see an 80 yr old climbing in and out of a minicooper?
Thanks for all the helpful hints!
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