| Many people simply do not know how to act | | | | |
| when comunicating with a wheelchair user. | | | | - Don't classify persons who use wheelchairs |
| These facts from the horses mouth may help. | | | | as sick. Wheelchairs are used for a variety |
| | | | of non-contagious disabilities. |
| - Always ask the person using the wheelchair | | | | |
| if he or she would like assistance BEFORE you | | | | - When a person using a wheelchair |
| help. It may not be needed or wanted. | | | | "transfers" out of the wheelchair to a chair, |
| | | | toilet, car or bed, do not move the |
| - Don't hang or lean on a person's wheelchair | | | | wheelchair out of reaching distance. |
| because it is part of that person's personal | | | | |
| body space. | | | | - Be aware of the person's capabilities. Some |
| | | | users can walk with aid and use wheelchairs |
| - Speak directly to the person in the | | | | to save energy and move quickly. |
| wheelchair, not to someone nearby as if the | | | | |
| person in the wheelchair did not exist. | | | | - It is ok to use terms like "running along" |
| | | | when speaking to a person who uses a |
| - If conversation lasts more than a few | | | | wheelchair. The person is likely to express |
| minutes, consider sitting down or kneeling to | | | | things the same way. |
| get yourself on the same level. | | | | |
| | | | - Don't discourage children from asking |
| - Don't deman or patronize the person by | | | | questions about the wheelchair. |
| patting them on the head. | | | | |
| | | | - Don't assume that using a wheelchair is in |
| - Give clear directions, including distance, | | | | itself a tragedy. It is a means of freedom |
| weather conditions and physical obstacles | | | | that allows the person to move about |
| that may hinder the person's travel. | | | | independently. |