No More Roadblocks: A Wheelchair Guide for First-Time Users
With the right wheelchair techniques and a little practice, you’ll soon be rolling through different terrains with complete ease.
A wheelchair is a handy mobility aid if you are injured, recovering from surgery, or weak after a prolonged illness. But if this is your first time using a wheelchair, be prepared for a slight learning curve. Here are tips and techniques to help you move around smoothly on this essential mobility device.
Getting in or out of the chair? Hit the brakes first
This is a simple step, yet you’ll be surprised how often users forget to apply the wheelchair brakes. The brakes hold the wheels still, ensuring that the chair remains in position as you get in and out of the wheelchair. If the brakes haven’t been applied and the wheels are moving, the device could roll away or tip over while you’re trying to sit down or get up.
Need support? That’s what the armrests are for
So long as the wheelchair brakes are applied and working properly, the wheelchair will stay in place as you get in and out of it. With this done, you can safely hold on to the armrests as you lower yourself into the chair. When exiting, push on the armrests to leverage yourself out of the wheelchair. The armrests are usually adjustable and offer temporary postural support while you are seated.
Don’t take risks. Always fasten your safety belt
Cars have shock absorbers to cushion passengers over rough terrains. But if you’re using a standard-issue wheelchair, expect to feel every little bump and slight incline on the road. Even pebbles and potholes could pose serious risks if you are not careful. Protect yourself from injury by securing the safety belt and adjusting its length as soon as you settle into the wheelchair.
Ramp up ahead? Have someone assist you
You may need a caregiver to help you navigate ramps and other inclines.
- Going up a ramp: The caregiver must lean forward and bend their knees to push the wheelchair up an incline. If the incline is too steep, ask your caregiver to roll the wheelchair backward first before pushing it up. The backward movement ensures better control.
- Going down a ramp: The caregiver must grip the handles and roll the wheelchair down slowly. They need to be extra careful when dealing with a steep incline. Better not to rush.
Worried about footpaths? Get your caregiver to help
An elevated platform like a footpath can be hard to navigate solo. Ask your caregiver to grip the handles, push down on the anti-tip bar with their foot, and roll the wheelchair up or down the platform. Here’s how:
- Getting on to a footpath: When the front wheels are at the edge of the pavement, the caregiver must raise the front wheels and slowly roll the wheelchair down the elevation using the rear wheels. Once the rear wheels have safely crossed the top of the pavement, the front wheels can be lowered to the ground.
- Getting off a footpath: The caregiver must raise the front wheels and slowly move the wheelchair down the elevation using the rear wheels. Some people find it easier to roll backward on the rear wheels while descending from a platform. In both cases, the front wheels are lowered once the entire wheelchair is off the footpath.
Know the elevator etiquette for wheelchair users
Rolling straight into the elevator seems simple enough. But you don’t want to be facing the back of the elevator while inside. Instead, turn your wheelchair around and roll backwards into the elevator. That way, you can face the elevator doors and know when your floor arrives. Wait for the doors to open before rolling your wheelchair forward and out of the lift.
No more bumps in the road
With a little practice, you (and your caregiver) could become experts at rolling the wheelchair over different terrains. What might improve the experience? A good-quality wheelchair would certainly help.
If your need is temporary, rent one through a medical equipment rental service like EquipMe and enjoy some cost-savings in the bargain. Renting a wheelchair would also spare you the hassle of routine maintenance and repairs. You’d get a nicely upholstered, fully functional mobility aid that takes you wherever you need to go.
