Now that I have your attention, wheelchairs are USED by people…read the article please.
First off, when Dawn and I use the term disabled in our blog articles, we are using the term based on the legal Government term as recognized in the ADA (American Disabilities Act) guidelines. It is not our favorite term and may not be yours, but we use it for clarity. It is used to describe someone that has a challenge that most “normal” or ‘abled-people’ do not have with their ADL’s (Activities of Daily Living).
SO, a person in a wheelchair is a PERSON first! The wheelchair is just their ‘legs’. A person who is blind, may have a dog or a cane which becomes their Eyes! Etc, etc…
So here comes the learning part.
Treat people as people! We all come in different sizes, shapes, colors, backgrounds, and education.
When dealing with someone who has a disability, don’t assume that help is needed. Politely ask and offer, but don’t be offended if it is refused. Someone with a disability may not want or need the help, or might surprise you by requesting assistance with something other than what you assumed they needed help with.
On the other hand, if you have a disability and you need help, politely ask. Remember that it helps to let someone know why you are asking, plus the big bonus is that most people will be willing to help more than you may know!
Here is one great example, and it gives you an idea of what I am trying to educate you on (you might say preach):
Elevator etiquette…SO you walk up to a bank of elevators and there are many people waiting. The doors open and it gets filled up with no room for this person to take their wheelchair or scooter in. Call attention to the next elevator and let the wheelchair/scooter user get in first so they have room to get in! Wow, polite and you don’t get your feet run over!
At the same time, if YOU are in a wheelchair or scooter, don’t assume that you should jump to the front of the line when you roll up to a crowd waiting for the same elevator, wait your turn and ask for some help getting in if needed.
Basic common courtesy goes a long way when dealing with someone with a disability.
–Sean Schultz / Dream Vacations Vacation Specialist
