Know Your Wheelchair Etiquette
When you first encounter people in wheelchairs, they can be in expensive wheelchairs or cheap wheelchairs but it may not be immediately clear how to interact with them. You and the person in the wheelchair may both be uncomfortable and there may be a period of adjustment. Some common sense suggestions may help in this regard to ease the learning process.
You will find here an assembled a list of suggestions in order to try to dispel some of the myths and anxiety over this topic. These can help but are certainly not complete. One still needs to be alert and aware of the situation and adjust as necessary. People with disabilities are the same as those without except the have some extra challenges that others do not. That is all.
Here I have presented a list of seven suggestions that will if followed make the learning process go more smoothly and ease the anxiety of dealing with persons in a wheelchair.
First, remember they are a person just like you other than their ability to be mobile is hampered.
Second, you can offer your assistance but you shouldn’t assume they necessarily want any.
Third, the wheelchair may be considered a part of the personal space of the disabled person so treat it like it is.
Forth, when addressing this person in the wheelchair you should try to get on eye level.
Fifth, don’t patronize the disabled person by patting them on the head. This is very disrespectful.
Sixth, please don’t assume a person in the wheelchair has any desire for you to move their cheap wheelchairs if they move into a regular seat.
Seventh, ask what kind of help they want and then do what they ask.
These suggestions are only the beginning of a process whereby you can learn how to be comfortable around people with disabilities and learn that they really are no different than others except for their limited mobility or should I say their alternate way of being mobile.
Use common sense and be respectful in every situation with the person and you will go a long way in helping everyone without offending anyone or putting either of you in an awkward situation.
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