How to Use a Wheelchair

A wheelchair is an assistive device that helps a person to go from place to place.

Types of wheelchairs

There are two kinds of wheelchairs.

• Manual wheelchairs.
  • Your hands and arms operate this type of wheelchair.
  • You need to have good upper body strength to use one of these.
• Power wheelchairs.
  • These are also called electric or motorized wheelchairs.
  • A battery provides power to the wheelchair.
  • Hand controls operate this type of wheelchair. If you cannot use your hands, you can use different types of controls.

How to use a wheelchair

Manual Wheelchair

• To move, use your hands to push the rims of the wheels forward or to pull the rims backward.
• To turn, hold the wheel steady on the side that you wish to turn toward while you use your other hand to move the opposite wheel.
  • For example, if you want to turn left, hold the left wheel steady while you use your right hand to move the right wheel.
• To make a sharp spin, push one wheel forward while you pull the other wheel backward at the same time.
• To stay still, use the brake.

Power Wheelchair

• To move, push the “joystick” controller in the direction that you want to go.
  • For example, if you want to turn left, push the joystick to the left.
• To use the other options on the controller, follow the wheelchair instructions. Each wheelchair is different. Talk with the supplier if you have questions.

Safety tips

• If you have a manual wheelchair, consider wearing gloves to protect your hands when you operate your wheelchair.
• If you have a power wheelchair, set the speed to a low setting and practice in an open area at first.
• Avoid curbs and bumps when possible. If you must drive over bumps, back over them. If you have a manual wheelchair, learn how to pop up the front of your wheelchair to pass over small bumps.
• When you use your wheelchair on rough ground, move slowly.
• Wear a seat belt.
• Keep your feet firmly on the footrest.
• Use the wheel locks to keep the wheelchair steady:
  • When you get in and out of your wheelchair.
  • When you remain in your wheelchair while you travel in a van or bus.

Contact a health care provider if:

• You develop sores on your body from rubbing or prolonged contact with parts of your wheelchair.