How to Get Around in a Wheelchair
Few would choose to use a wheelchair, but if you need one, no other device can give you more mobility and independence.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
Things You'll Need
- Power Wheelchairs
- E-Z Reacher
- Manual Wheelchairs
- Medical Alert Bracelet
- Wheelchair Gloves
- Wheelchair Mini Ramps
- Wheelchair Ramps
- Wheelchair Seat Cushions
- Fanny Packs
- Heavy-duty Rain Ponchos
- Mini Backpacks
- Cellular Phones
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1
Consult with a professional wheelchair technician to ensure that the wheelchair fits properly and suits your capabilities.
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2
Assure proper posture and comfort by sitting up straight, using all of the support provided by the wheelchair back and keeping your feet firmly on the pedals. Use a gel seat cushion or some form of heavy-duty seat protection.
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3
Rotate the wheelchair on its axis for a quick turn by moving one wheel forward and the other in reverse.
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4
Keep hands, elbows and knees inside the framework when moving in order to prevent being pinched between the wheelchair and another object.
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5
Try moving in reverse through narrow turns in hallways and doorways if you can't get through them going forward.
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6
Remove the front pedals to temporarily shorten the wheelchair length when trying to execute extremely tight turns. Use any leg strength you have to apply additional leverage for turning.
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7
Lean slightly toward a door as you move through it. By letting the door rest against your shoulder, you'll keep it from rubbing against your pushing hand.
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8
Plan your route before moving around the house or office.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Remember that steep grades and other difficult maneuvers sometimes are more easily negotiated when moving backward.
Consider wearing medical identification to make it clear why you use a wheelchair.
Carry a cell phone or a cordless telephone in your wheelchair.
An extendible reaching tool serves nicely to reach objects from high shelves.
Keep a poncho handy. Ponchos provide better rain protection than umbrellas.
Mini-backpacks or fanny packs provide handy carrying capacity for wheelchair users.
Long-term wheelchair users may find it worthwhile to invest in a van equipped with a wheelchair lift.
Select the right wheelchair for you. Amputees need a wheelchair with a different center of gravity. Those who can use only one side of their body need a single-drive wheelchair.
Turn off the control switch to your power chair when children are present.
Ask a friend or family member to accompany you if you must venture outdoors during ice or snowstorms.
