Challenges of an Individual in a Wheelchair

People who rely on a wheelchair for mobility may do so because of disease, injury or other health problems. Getting around in a wheelchair can be difficult for those who are adjusting to the transition, and for many the daily rigors of life in a wheelchair gradually become easier. But there are several challenges that must be overcome by wheelchair-bound people throughout their lives. Some of the solutions require a change in attitude, while others require action by others.

Accessibility

• One of the most significant challenges for individuals in wheelchairs is the accessibility issue. Places are generally designed with fully able-bodied people in mind. Staircases, narrow doors, bathroom stalls and much more are all usually built for those who walk where they need to go. But people in wheelchairs are unable to climb stairs and require ramps to be installed. They are also unable to use restrooms that are not ADA compliant. The width of the chair is also usually wider than most people and cannot get through narrow doorways. This poses a major challenge to wheelchair-bound individuals who merely wish to get where they need to go in day-to-day life.

Self-Consciousness

• Self-consciousness is a challenge that individuals in wheelchairs overcome with various successes. Because some individuals are not used to seeing disabled persons in wheelchairs regularly, they may find it difficult not to stare. Others may disregard them altogether because they want to pretend they didn't notice. Even worse, some people talk down to thoe in wheelchairs because they subconsciously feel they are not equal or they feel sorry for them.

  People in wheelchairs notice this behavior and can become quite self-conscious because of it. Those that deal with it successfully must develop an attitude and a sense of humor, according to the Wheel Me On website, a non-profit organization working to improve accessibility for individuals in wheelchairs.

Travel

• Travel can be a challenge for wheelchair-bound people no matter how they choose to do it. Some may need special vehicles like vans with a lift. When it comes to public transportation, buses are often ill equipped to handle wheelchairs, or else they have systems that make the driver go through an ordeal to load them on a ramp, which can make the person in the chair feel like they are hindering others' trips. Airplanes often have the most trouble with wheelchairs because they do not have proper stowage and the chairs can get damaged in transit. Trains and subways are generally tight spaces that are difficult to maneuver a chair in. Also, getting the chair from the platform into the car can be tricky and potentially dangerous.

Health Problems

• Aside from the problems that forced the person into the wheelchair, the constant sitting can cause additional health problems. Sore muscles, general discomfort, sores, hand cramps and other injuries are common with wheelchair-bound individuals.