Etiquette for Non-Wheelchair Users – An Infographic

Etiquette for Non-Wheelchair Users The most important thing you need to remember when meeting someone in a wheelchair is to talk to the person and not to the disability. Offer to shake the wheelchair users hand even if they appear to have limited function of their hands. Don't be afraid of personal contact (where appropriate) it can open up communication. Meeting If the wheelchair user is accompanied by a caregiver don't talk only to the caregiver. Speak to the disabled person directly. Don't stare at the chair, make normal eye contact. If the conversation is going to be longer than 5 minutes find somewhere to sit down so that you are both on the same level Talking Try and talk as normally as possible. don't worry about offending the person if you say the wrong thing. Think of the wheelchair as part of the user's body. Don't rest your foot on the wheel chair or hang an item of clothing from it. Don't push or move the chair unless specially asked to by the user. Personal think a wheelchair user needs assistance ask before you help. Space If you Never pat a wheelchair users on the back or slap their leg as a goodwill gesture. This could result in muscle spasms or loss of balance. Don't be afraid to ask! No harm can be done for asking something you are unsure of in a polite manner. Ask the disabled person to clarify the query you have. is in the wheelchair users best interest to make it known if they have any special requirements that you should be aware of. Children and Wheelchair Users Kids stare - its just what they do! Don't worry if your child is confused by the use of wheelchairs. Use their curiosity as an opportunity to explain to them about disabilities and why people need to use wheelchairs. REMEMBER TO LOOK BEYOND THE CHAIR AT THE PERSON! Reference: http://www.travisroyfoundation.org/resources/non-wheelchair-user-etiquette http://patientc.blogspot.ie/2010/09/smartass-guide-to-wheelchair-etiquette.html http://www.1800wheelchair.com/news/post/disability-etiquette-beyond-wheelchairs.aspx http://www.apparelyzed.com/etiquette.html http://www.disabled-world.com/disability/statistics/american-disability.php http://blog.mcmobilitysystems.com/wp-content/plugins/rss-poster/cache/4371c_adult13- resized-600.jpg HOME Healthcare Adaptations www.home-healthcare-adaptations.ie ^ ^ ^ ^^