An odd request, probably...

[sami]

... but a few days ago, I broke my leg in three places. Unstable ankle fracture means I can't put any weight on it for months; chronic shoulder injury means I can't use crutches, either, so moving around is a struggle and I'm going to be in a wheelchair if I want to leave the house before April.

So what I want to ask is: Does anyone have any warnings or advice on things I might not have thought of about living with a wheelchair? After all the accessibility fails I've read of and seen, I'm a little nervous about what I might run into.

Comments

[tig_b]

I'd also recommend you consider a small (travel) scooter - you'll still get people walking into you, stepping backwards, etc. but it's easier to stop. I'm replacing my autogo with a luggie - expensive but good.

You can rent one or try one out in a store/supermarket.

Other things - I use a small shoulder bag for my money, cards, etc. My sister uses bum bags/fanny packs. Anything that doesn't need hands!
And I travel with a coffee mug that has a good lid.
Being in a wheelchair or scooter gets cold outside, make sure you have an extra layer.

And finally - even though you'll meet some idiots, you'll also find lots of helpful people out there. Ask for help, tell them what you need - it trains them for the rest of us ;)

[sami]

Fortunately, it's summer here - getting cold in a Perth summer is *definitely* not a concern.

I promise to ask for help, and also speak sharply to people who treat me like luggage. (Any sales person who ignores me in favour of talking to my companions will probably get blank stares from my companions, helpfully.)