Wheelchair Users and Etiquette - What You Should Know!

Posted by Bob Palindrome on March 17th, 2009 in Society.

Wheelchair users make up a large part of the population. A person who is not physically challenged may wonder how they should approach and interact with someone who occupies a manual or power wheelchair. Believe it or not, wheelchair etiquette does exist. The main thing to remember regarding people in wheelchairs is that they are people too and deserve respect. However, if one is not sure how to act around those in power wheelchairs, then perhaps a few etiquette tips will help.

The first rule of etiquette when interacting with people in wheelchairs, or power chairs, is to remember that one should not focus on their disability. Instead, focus on the person. Another rule of etiquette is the act of shaking hands, even if their limbs are limited in use. This gesture will set the tone for the interaction and make the person residing in the chair feel more at ease. Another important rule to remember is that one should never lean on or rock the wheelchair. A manual or electric wheelchair may seem to be only an inanimate object, but the truth is the chair is part of them and their body, just as an arm or leg is to someone who is not wheelchair bound.

The people who interact with wheelchair users should remember to talk to them as they would any other human being. However, other rules of etiquette include such things as allowing children to ask questions to those in a wheelchair. Curiosity is normal in children, and open communication will help to avoid fear and the wrong attitude. For other information regarding wheelchair etiquette, one should visit the website of www.wheelchair-deals.com.

Wheelchair users have to deal with so many issues in their lives, and the last thing they need is to be treated differently. The good thing is that thanks to the internet, a person can learn all they need to know on how to interact with those who are confined to a wheelchair. Courtesy towards others, including people in wheelchairs, is something that should be extended at all times.

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