WHEELCHAIR ETIQUETTE

The Chairs

Wheelchair Do’s Always ask the wheelchair user if he or he would like assistance before you help. It may not be needed or wanted. Speak directly to the person in the wheelchair, not someone nearby as if the wheelchair user did not exist. If the conversation lasts more than a few minutes, consider sitting down or kneeling to get yourself on the same level. Give clear directions, including distance and physical obstacles that might hinder the wheelchair user’s travel. Be aware of the wheel chair user’s capabilities. Some users can walk with aid, and use wheelchairs to save energy and move quickly.

Wheelchair Don’ts Don’t hang or lean on a person’s wheelchair because it is part of the wheelchair user’s personal body space. Don’t demean or patronize the wheelchair user by patting on the head. Use the same social etiquette you would with anyone. Don’t classify persons who use wheelchairs as sick. Wheelchair are used for a variety of non-contagious disabilities. Don’t move the wheelchair out of reaching distance when a wheelchair user “transfers to a chair, the toilet, car or bed. Don’t discourage others from asking questions about the wheelchair. Don’t assume that using a wheelchair is in itself a tragedy. Its is a means of freedom that allows the user to move about independently.

Reminders when Pushing a Wheelchair 1)Make sure the brakes are off. 2)Avoid pot holes and uneven ground. 3)When on rough ground, balance the chair on its rear wheels 4)Make sure you always have a firm grip on the handles 5)Never run with a participant in the chair.

Pushing A Chair Up the Curb 1)Place your foot on the tipping lever. 2)Balance chair on its rear wheels. 3)Push up (don not lift). Or 1)Tackle the curb backwards, turn antitips up. 2)Balance the chair on rear wheels. 3)Roll up curb (do not lift) return the antitips to place.

Pushing A Wheelchair Down A Curb 1)Put your foot on tipping lever and raise the front castors to balance the rear wheels. 2)Lower down the curb. 3)Make sure front wheels are on the ground. Or 1)Tackle the curb backwards 2)Balance on rear wheels. 3)Slowly lower down curb and make sure front wheels are on the ground.