Common Misconceptions About People in Wheelchairs

When a person is in a wheelchair, others often make quick judgments about them before ever interacting with them. While we understand being unfamiliar with differences in others, we want to break down some of the stigma and misconceptions associated with those who are wheeled mobility users.

Misconception #1: They Can’t Communicate

Some people in wheelchairs may be unable to speak or make eye contact, but that doesn’t mean they cannot communicate. And even more, it doesn’t mean they shouldn’t be addressed. Everyone deserves to be spoken to and looked at. Even if they cannot talk back, a simple fist bump, a smile, or saying hello can mean a lot. Be sure to talk directly to the person in the wheelchair first, rather than only addressing their caretaker, and be sure to talk to them in an age-appropriate way. Don’t use baby talk with an adult or older child.

Misconception #2: Wheelchairs Are Easy to Move and Lift

This is less about the people and more about the chairs themselves, but it’s a big contributing factor to the quality of life of those who are in wheelchairs. Even the most lightweight wheelchairs are still 20-35 pounds, and those are only the ones that wheelchair users move themselves. Standard wheelchairs are typically around 75-85 pounds, while power chairs can weigh up to a whopping 400 pounds. This impacts a person’s ability to go places and increases their life space substantially. If a family member can’t transport the wheelchair (with or without the person in it), they can’t travel very far beyond the walls of their home.

Misconception #3: Talking About Being in a Wheelchair Is Taboo

It’s true that some people don’t want to discuss why they’re in a wheelchair, but the vast majority of wheelchair users are happy to talk about their disability. You should be kind, of course, and don’t simply blurt out, “What happened to you?” or something similar. But you can respectfully ask a person to share their story or ask if they mind answering a few questions.

Misconception #4: People in Wheelchairs Can’t Have “Normal” Lives

Most people in wheelchairs can lead extremely typical lives. They go to school and have jobs, they use the restroom normally, they eat and drink, they get married, they have children, and so on. Of course, these specifics won’t apply to everyone in a wheelchair since everyone is different, but they can lead lives very similar to yours and mine.

Every person has differences and every person has different abilities, and those who spend their time in a wheelchair are no different. As you go about your days and interact with people with different experiences from your own, be sure to give respect and love to each individual because everyone deserves kindness.

We want to give a special shout-out to Todd Dewey of NuMotion for his input on this article. NuMotion is the leading distributor of services and products that contribute to the independence, health, and mobility needs of countless individuals. Todd is a former board member of All Things Possible and continues to spread awareness of the need for appropriate mobility solutions for people in wheelchairs. Join us at ATP today to help make a difference in the lives of those who long for more mobility and safe transportation.