As someone who has spent a lot of time in a power wheelchair, I can tell you that traveling can be an adventure. Not the fun kind of adventure, but the kind where you never know what kind of obstacle you’re going to face next. So if you’re planning a trip with a power wheelchair user, or if you’re a power wheelchair user yourself, here are 10 issues you may encounter while traveling, along with some helpful (and hilarious) tips.
- Inaccessible Bathrooms: One of the biggest challenges for power wheelchair users is finding accessible bathrooms. Whether you’re at an airport, a gas station, or a restaurant, it seems like every bathroom is either too small, too crowded, or not accessible at all. If you find yourself in this situation, don’t panic. Just remember that sometimes, the best option is to improvise. Find a quiet corner, whip out your catheter, and get to work!
- Stairs: Another obstacle that power wheelchair users often encounter is stairs. While some places are equipped with ramps or elevators, others are not. If you find yourself facing a flight of stairs, don’t worry. You can always ask a stranger to give you a piggyback ride. Just make sure you give them a good tip afterwards.
- Uneven Surfaces: Power wheelchairs are great for smooth surfaces, but when you encounter uneven terrain, things can get tricky. If you find yourself on a bumpy road or a rocky path, just remember to hold on tight and scream like a little girl.
- Small Doorways: If you’re traveling in an older building, you may encounter doorways that are too narrow for your power wheelchair. In this case, you have a few options. You can either ask someone to carry you through the doorway, or you can try to squeeze through and hope for the best. Just be prepared for some bruises and scratches.
- Low Hanging Objects: When you’re in a power wheelchair, you’re basically at bumper height. That means low-hanging objects, like tree branches and chandeliers, are your worst enemy. If you find yourself about to collide with a low-hanging object, just close your eyes and brace for impact.
- Overly Friendly People: While most people are well-meaning and friendly, some can be a little too helpful. If you find yourself being approached by someone who wants to push your wheelchair, just remember that they mean well. But if they start to push you into traffic, it’s probably time to assert your independence.
- Crowded Areas: Whether you’re in a busy airport or a packed stadium, crowded areas can be a nightmare for power wheelchair users. If you find yourself surrounded by a sea of people, just remember to use your power chair as a battering ram. It’s not the most polite approach, but it gets the job done.
- Unreliable Equipment: Power wheelchairs are great when they work, but when they don’t, things can get ugly. If your power chair breaks down while you’re traveling, don’t panic. Just remember that you can always crawl to your destination. It may take a while, but it’s a good workout.
- Bad Weather: When you’re in a power wheelchair, bad weather can make things even more challenging. If you find yourself caught in a rainstorm, just remember to bring a poncho. If it’s snowing, you can always put chains on your wheels. And if it’s really hot, you can always just stay inside and watch TV.
- Inconsiderate People: Finally, the biggest issue that power wheelchair users face while traveling is inconsiderate people. Whether it’s someone who parked in an accessible spot without a permit or someonewho refuses to move out of the way, inconsiderate people can make traveling a nightmare. But don’t worry, there are ways to deal with them. If someone is parked in an accessible spot, just leave a passive-aggressive note on their windshield. If someone is blocking your path, just honk your horn and give them a dirty look.
In all seriousness, traveling as a power wheelchair user can be challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. Despite the obstacles, you’ll have the opportunity to see new places, meet new people, and have new experiences. And at the end of the day, that’s what traveling is all about. So pack your bags, charge your power chair, and get ready for an adventure! And remember, when all else fails, just laugh it off.
