Dispelling Misconceptions of Ambulatory Wheelchair Use

Ambulatory wheelchair use is more common than many realize. In 2021, nearly 7% of Americans had ambulatory disabilities or difficulties — whether that be struggling to walk, climb stairs or otherwise move around. Yet, the general public’s assumptions of wheelchair use can be harmful to this population. In support of our community, Paraquad shines a light on a few misconceptions about part-time wheelchair users and dispels them. 

“They can’t walk.” 

The average person may assume that someone who uses a wheelchair has limited to no use of their legs. As a result, many people are shocked when a wheelchair user stands up or moves their legs. 

While many people who use wheelchairs have paraplegia or a limb difference that makes them unable to walk, that's not the hard and fast rule. People with a wide range of ambulatory disabilities may use a wheelchair often, but can still walk short distances. 

“They are faking it.”

Ambulatory wheelchair users risk harassment and discrimination each time they step out of their chairs in public. People assume that if a person can walk, they don’t need their wheelchair — even worse, part-time wheelchair users take resources away from people who “need them.” 

Remember: disabilities and chronic illnesses are not always visible. Even if someone doesn’t “look” disabled, it doesn’t mean they are faking their condition. People of all ages may experience joint instability, muscle weakness, tremors, neurological conditions, chronic pain, heart conditions and Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). A wheelchair is simply a tool to help people get from point A to point B without complications. 

“They are stuck in their wheelchair.” 

Unfortunately, many people use the phrase “wheelchair bound” to describe someone using a wheelchair. No one is “stuck” in their wheelchair. If anything, an ambulatory wheelchair represents freedom and helps each person maintain independence. 

Wheelchairs and other mobility aids can serve as a lifeline for people with ambulatory disabilities. They allow each person to do the things they love a bit easier — whether that be going to work, spending time with family and friends or engaging in a beloved hobby. 

“An ambulatory wheelchair is inaccessible.”

Wheelchairs can be pricey, and this can definitely be a barrier for part-time wheelchair users. The average cost of a new wheelchair is between $500 and $1,500. Manual wheelchairs tend to be less expensive, while power wheelchairs can run as high as $30,000. It’s accurate to say that cost may deter some from using a wheelchair, even if it would improve their quality of life. 

However, community resources are available to people who need an ambulatory wheelchair but cannot afford it. Paraquad’s Reuse Program recycles all types of assistive technology, including wheelchairs. Our team sources equipment from across Missouri, hoping to restore independence to people with ambulatory disabilities and beyond.
Need a specific piece of equipment? Contact our assistive technology specialists at (314) 289-4266 to make an appointment today.