Support for students with physical disabilities
Support for students with physical disabilities
The first rule of etiquette when interacting with people in wheelchairs, or power chairs, is to remember that one should not focus on their disability. Instead, focus on the person. Another rule of etiquette is the act of shaking hands, even if their limbs are limited in use. Focus on the person, not on his or her disability. People who use wheelchairs have varying capabilities. Some people who use wheelchairs can walk with aid or for short distances. They use wheelchairs because they help them to conserve energy and to move about with greater efficiency. Don't classify or think of people who use wheelchairs as "sick." Don't pet guide dogs or other service animals as they are working animals. If your conversation lasts more than a few minutes, consider sitting down, etc. to get yourself on the same eye-level as the person who uses the wheelchair. It will keep both of you from getting a stiff neck! Here are some other pieces of advice when supporting a disabled person using a wheelchair:
- Don't hang or lean on a person's wheelchair because it is part of that person's personal body space.
- Bathroom breaks matter. If you plan a gathering or meeting and observe someone in a wheelchair, ensure the person has access to a bathroom.
- Speak directly to the person in the wheelchair, not to someone nearby as if the person in the wheelchair did not exist.
- Never belittle or patronise the disabled person by patting them on the head.
- Give clear directions, including distance, weather conditions and physical obstacles that may hinder the person's travel.
- Be aware of the person's capabilities. Some users can walk with aid and use wheelchairs to save energy and move quickly.
- It is ok to use terms like "running along" when speaking to a person who uses a wheelchair. The person is likely to express things the same way.
- Don't assume that using a wheelchair is in itself a tragedy. It is a means of freedom that allows the person to move about independently.
Support for students with physical disabilities; e.g. wheelchair users, Cerebral Palsy, arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome and other upper body and limb disorders. Coping strategies for students with physical disabilities can include:
- Voice input software, e.g. Dragon Naturally Speaking
- Ergonomic furniture, (chairs, mice, keyboards, wrist rests)
- Digital recording devices
- Human support, (e.g. note-takers, library support, curriculum access, scribes etc.)
Support for conditions affecting stamina and fatigue, e.g. ME / Chronic Fatigue Syndrome / Fibromyalgia, Sickle Cell Anaemia, HIV + status, Chron’s Disease Coping strategies can include:
- Digital recording devices
- Human support: library support, note-takers
- Help with travel and transport
- Text-to-speech software, voice input software
