Adjusting to Life in a Wheelchair

7 Tips for Adjusting to Life in a Wheelchair

It takes time to adjust to life in a wheelchair. Whether you need short-term assistance or are transitioning to permanent wheelchair use, adapting to your new environment can seem overwhelming. You may face several significant changes during this time, but there are also ways to make the transition easier and more manageable. These seven tips can help you find the positives in your situation so you can feel happy and confident in your chair.

1. Allow Time to Grieve

First and foremost, it’s important to dedicate time and space to the grieving process. Many think grief only relates to losing a loved one, but significant life changes often bring a sense of grief and loss, especially when multiple aspects of life shift at once. Allow yourself to express your feelings and frustrations. Recognize that things will change and voice your emotions regarding those changes, whether to yourself or your support system. Allowing the proper time to grieve can make acceptance easier, helping you regain a sense of control and find ways to become excited about a new future.

2. Invest in a Comfortable, Quality Chair

Whether you’ll be enjoying retirement in your chair or expect several weeks for healing, a quality chair will make a huge difference. Beyond your sitting comfort, a quality chair can make it easier to move around, reach items and navigate obstacles.

There are several types of wheelchairs to consider. Manual chairs, electric wheelchairs and self-propelled chairs all offer unique advantages and considerations. After deciding which type of chair will most benefit you, consider enhancements to make it more comfortable and convenient. For example, you can often personalize footrests, wheel spokes, seats and armrests, allowing you to use your chair for long periods without getting sore or restless.

3. Practice Navigating Environments

Learning how to operate your chair is important for maintaining your independence and easing frustrations. Learning wheelchair skills may take time, but mastering them can help you build confidence. Consider these essential skills:

  • Turning corners: Turning requires you to push one wheel more than the other. Holding one wheel relatively stationary while moving the other one forward allows you to pivot on the stationary wheel.
  • Navigating slopes: You will often encounter slopes, such as ramps. When going up a slope, lean forward to distribute your weight and use short, forceful pushes to move forward. When going down a slope, keep a consistent, slow speed, avoid sudden movements and grab the wheel to stop and slow down as necessary.
  • Transferring in and out of the chair: Depending on where you’re going or coming from, your transfer steps may vary. For instance, transferring in and out of a car will often require different steps than moving to and from a bed. General tips for transferring include moving your chair as close as possible to the location you need and starting the transfer on the stronger side of your body. Always lock the chair before moving in and out, and bend your knees during transfer to maintain a curve in your back.
  • Picking items off the ground: Everyone drops things, but dropping something from your wheelchair can be especially frustrating. Some people may fall from their chairs when attempting to pick items up, which can worsen conditions or cause new injuries. Instead, use one hand on your thigh or the chair to balance while using the other hand to pick the item up. You can also consider disability support accessories such as extending arm grabbers to empower you to pick items up without bending over.

4. Consider Home Modifications

Home modifications support adaptive living, empowering you to maintain independence and find satisfaction in your daily movements. Several home modifications can make a huge difference, especially if you will need your chair permanently. Consider these modifications:

Installing an Elevator Empowers You

  • Walk-in showers: Walk-in showers may be the most accessible option, but shower chairs can also make your experience more enjoyable.
  • Outdoor ramps: Consider installing a ramp leading to your home to support your indoor and outdoor movements.
  • Door levers: Swap door knobs for levers for easier opening and closing.
  • Dumbwaiter: A residential dumbwaiter can make it easier to carry bulky or heavy items, including laundry, groceries, garbage, packages and household supplies.
  • Handicap toilets: Replace standard toilets with handicap varieties for bathroom ease.
  • Elevator: Installing an elevator empowers you to access every floor of your home so your chair causes minimal disruptions to your daily life.
  • Non-carpet flooring: Carpet can make it challenging to navigate your home on wheels, so consider laminate, wood or tile options.

5. Discover Coping Strategies

Regardless of your overall positive attitude, sometimes you may feel discouraged or frustrated. Facing new challenges in your chair can spark upsetting feelings. It’s important to discover coping strategies to help you overcome these feelings and challenges. Coping strategies vary for everyone, so take time to explore what works for you, such as:

  • Finding new ways to get active
  • Participating in a hobby
  • Focusing on your strengths and abilities
  • Journaling your thoughts
  • Practicing patience or meditation

6. Find Accessible Hobbies

If your transition to life in a wheelchair was sudden, you may have spontaneously needed to give up activities like playing a certain sport, driving or working at a physically demanding job. Thankfully, there are plenty of accessible hobbies that can help you find enjoyment in your free time.

Hobbies like reading, knitting, writing, playing games, drawing and painting are great options for those with limited mobility. You could also consider learning to play an instrument, taking up gardening or making crafts. If you have a competitive spirit, look for opportunities in your community to participate in a wheelchair sports league.

7. Seek a Support System

Our last tip for adjusting to life in your chair is to find a support system you trust. Whether you want someone to talk to, need assistance while mastering your wheelchair skills or need a hobby partner, your support system can give you the encouragement and company you need. Many friends and family members may step in to support you physically or emotionally. Don’t hesitate to reach out to these people and actively engage in social activities to avoid feelings of isolation.

Ensure Wheelchair Accessibility at Home

Ensure Wheelchair Accessibility at Home With Inclinator

Adjusting to life in a wheelchair can be physically and emotionally taxing. Learning to navigate new obstacles and becoming comfortable in your new environment takes time. However, there are ways to make the transition easier and empower you to maintain your independence.

At Inclinator, we value your safety, convenience and independence. We offer residential dumbwaiters and elevators to support aging in place and enhance home accessibility. With nearly a century of experience and a passion for helping our community, we can provide the peace of mind you deserve.

For more information about our product, installation process or design considerations, reach out to your local dealer. We look forward to serving you.

Inclinator Team
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