Chapter Five: Working with People who are Mobility Impaired

Mobility impairments are often difficult to detect. A person with mobility impairments may be in a wheelchair, or may not use any type of mobility device but may have difficulty standing up for long periods of time. Mobility impairments can restrict a person¿s range of movements, stamina, or ability to negotiate stairs.

Social Etiquette

If possible, place yourself at eye level with people with mobility impairments. This prevents people with mobility impairments from getting a kink in their neck. If you cannot lower yourself to eye level, you need to allow enough distance between yourself and people with mobility impairments so as not to force their head into an awkward position.

The taller you are, the more distance you should allow. If the conversation will take awhile, find a chair.

When talking to people with mobility impairments, sit directly in front of them. Sometimes it is difficult for people with mobility impairments to turn their body in the wheelchair to see you.

Never pat them on the head or shoulder. You would never pat anyone else on the head; it is degrading.

Do not lean on the wheelchair, or any other assistive devices (canes, walkers, etc.). Assistive devices are an extension of their personal space.

Try to give people with mobility impairments options. Rather than telling people with mobility impairments what to do, you should try to give them options so they can adapt to fit their needs and abilities.

Do not assume all exits work with all types of mobility devices. Wheelchairs vary in size and functionality. Make certain you develop exit routes with assistive devices in mind. If people with mobility impairments indicate that a pathway is not accessible, respect their authority on the matter. People with mobility impairments have accurate knowledge about how their assistive technology functions in their own home.

Do not place any items on the desktop of people with mobility impairments, if they have one attached to the wheelchair. This is considered very inconsiderate unless they offer first.

Greetings

Extend your hand for the usual handshake greeting. Let people with mobility impairments decide how long and the strength of the handshake. It may seem awkward at first. Remember, shaking hands indicates that you respect people with mobility impairments.

Providing Directions

Do not assume that people with mobility impairments want you to push their wheelchair. Ask first.