Be respectful that the wheelchair is part of the user's personal space. Do not push a person in a wheelchair without first receiving permission. When giving directions to a person in a wheelchair, consider distance, weather conditions, and physical obstacles such as stairs, curbs, and steep hills. Also, be alert to such obstacles when selecting a meeting place with a wheelchair user. If you can predict that your conversation will last more than a few minutes, sit down in order to share eye level.
Many wheelchair users can transfer in and out of their chair with little or no help.
If they do so, do not move the chair out of their reach. Some people who use wheelchairs can walk with the assistance of aids such as crutches, braces, or a walker. A wheelchair may be simply faster for them, or a way of conserving energy. If you have any questions or comments regarding the above information, fee free to direct them to Jane Slykhuis, Coordinator of Student Disability Services, at 273-2676. Plug yourself into the next issue of The Extra Circuit for more tips to spark effective interaction with persons who have other disabilities.