13 Things Wheelchair Users Appreciate
After our post: 10 Things To Never Say To A Person In A Wheelchair, many of our members pointed out the need of an article that answers the question - "What should I say or do when I meet a person in a wheelchair?". Here it is - a collection of 13 things taken from a pamphlet prepared by The Scholtz Medical Center in Waterloo, Iowa that wheelchair users appreciate.
1. Asking before helping
Always ask the wheelchair user if he or she would like assistance before you help. Your help may not be needed or wanted.
2. Not leaning on the wheelchair
Don't hang or lean on a person's wheelchair because it is part of the wheelchair user's personal body space.
3. Their existence
Speak directly to the person in the wheelchair, not to someone nearby as if the wheelchair user did not exist.
4. Matching eye level
If conversation lasts more than a few minutes, consider sitting down or kneeling to get yourself on the same level as the wheelchair user.
5. Not patting on the head
Don't demean or patronize the wheelchair user by patting him or her on the head.
6. Giving clear directions
Give clear directions, including distance, weather conditions and physical obstacles that may hinder the wheelchair user's travel.
7. Asking questions
Don't discourage children from asking questions about the wheelchair. Open communication helps overcome fearful or misleading attitudes.
8. Keeping the wheelchair nearby
When a wheelchair user "transfers" out of the wheelchair to a chair, toilet, car or toilet, do not move the wheelchair out of reaching distance.
9. Using usual expressions
It is OK to use expressions like "running along" when speaking to the wheelchair user. It is likely the wheelchair user expresses things the same way.
10. Being aware of the situation
Be aware of a wheelchair user's capabilities. Some users can walk with aid and use wheelchairs because they can conserve energy and move about quickly.
11. Not referring as 'sick'
Don't classify persons who use wheelchairs as sick. Wheelchairs are used for a variety of non-contagious disabilities.
12. Understanding the independence
Don't assume that using a wheelchair is in itself a tragedy. It is a means of freedom that allows the user to move about independently.
13. Compliment the shoes!
And last but not the least, compliment their shoes! Chances are their shoes would be the cleanest of the lot, if not also the nicest.
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