20 Wheelchair myths, misconceptions and incorrect stereotypes

1. 

   They’re all the same: Not everyone in a wheelchair has the same condition or reason for using one.

2. They can’t feel their legs: Some people can feel and even move their legs but use wheelchairs for mobility support. (I can’t feel my legs).
3. They’re always dependent: Many wheelchair users are independent and manage many, if not all, aspects of their daily lives.
4. They can’t work: Many individuals in wheelchairs have successful careers across various sectors. (I could work, but I don’t need to).
5. They can’t be parents: Many wheelchair users have children and are active, loving parents. (I’m a father to two children).
6. They’re not active: Wheelchair users can be athletes, travellers and more.
7. They all want to be “cured”: Not everyone sees themselves as broken or needing curing.
8. They lack intelligence: Physical disability doesn’t equate to cognitive impairment. (After my accident, I completed a diploma and always learning about new technologies).
9. It’s okay to push their wheelchair without asking: Always ask for permission. It’s a matter of respect and autonomy.
10. They’re always sad about their condition: Many wheelchair users live fulfilling, happy lives and accept their disability. (True!)

Another 10 Wheelchair myths, misconceptions and stereotypes

1. They can’t live alone: Many live independently and manage their households. (After my kids moved out, I lived alone until one of them moved back in).
2. They can’t drive: Adaptive vehicles allow many wheelchair users to operate. (My VW Transporter just celebrated its 10th birthday).
3. They don’t care about fashion: Wheelchair users have diverse personal styles and can be fashion-conscious.
4. They’re a safety hazard: With proper access and infrastructure, they’re not.
5. They can’t participate in sports: Many adaptive sports cater to wheelchair users.
6. Their lives are less fulfilling: Quality of life isn’t solely based on mobility.
7. They’re always in pain: Not every wheelchair user is in constant pain. (My pain levels never go below 5 and increase during the day).
8. They’re an inspiration for simply existing: “Inspiration porn” can be demeaning. (I don’t mind if you use the term ‘inspiration’).
9. They can’t travel: Many wheelchair users travel domestically and internationally. (I’ve travelled to all of the capital cities in Australia).
10. They don’t go out much: Many are as socially active as anyone else. (I go out more often than most of my friends).

Another 10 Wheelchair myths, misconceptions and stereotypes

1. 

   They don’t exercise: Physical fitness is essential to many wheelchair users. (My home has a wheelchair-accessible gym and swimming pool).

2. All are paraplegic: Reasons for using wheelchairs are diverse.
3. They can’t do household chores: Many adapt and manage their homes effectively. (I do many chores and employ people to help).
4. They can’t participate in artistic endeavours: Wheelchair users are artists, musicians, writers, etc. (I create blogs and books).
5. They have lesser goals or dreams: Ambitions aren’t tied to mobility.
6. They all know each other: Being in a wheelchair doesn’t mean they know all other wheelchair users. (I have more friends that aren’t in wheelchairs).
7. They don’t enjoy outdoor activities: Many enjoy parks, beaches, hiking, etc.
8. They’re easy to scam or deceive: This stereotype is incorrect and harmful. (Yet to be a victim of a scam).
9. They have limited education: Many wheelchair users have advanced degrees and qualifications. (I have a Bachelor of Applied Science in Computer Studies and a Diploma in Writing and Publishing).
10. They lack autonomy: Many make independent choices daily.

Another 10 Wheelchair myths, misconceptions and stereotypes

1. They can’t cook: Many wheelchair users excel in culinary arts.
2. They have weak upper bodies: Many have strong upper bodies due to wheelchair propulsion. (I go to the gym 3 or 4 times a week).
3. They want to discuss their disability: Some do, many don’t. Respect boundaries. (It’s OK).
4. All wish they could walk: Walking isn’t a universal desire among all wheelchair users. (No, zooming around is faster than walking).
5. They can’t use public transportation: Many public systems are accessible.
6. They’re financially dependent: Many are economically independent. (I don’t rely upon a government pension).
7. They don’t socialize: Many are socially active, with wide circles of friends.
8. Their wheelchair is a burden: For many, it’s a tool of freedom.
9. They’re always sickly: Being in a wheelchair doesn’t equate to poor health. (I catch colds less often now).
10. They avoid crowded places: Many navigate and enjoy events, concerts, and more.

The final 10 Wheelchair myths, misconceptions and stereotypes

1. They’re always on government aid: Many work and don’t receive any support.
2. They can’t care for pets: Many wheelchair users have and care for pets. (My cat is Spartacus).
3. Their lives are tragic: Such a stereotype can be overly simplifying and demeaning.
4. They don’t go to concerts or festivals: Many enjoy live events.
5. They can’t be successful: Many wheelchair users are incredibly successful in various fields.
6. They’re not tech-savvy: Many are proficient or even experts in technology. (Love technology such as home automation and AI).
7. They’re humourless about their condition: Many have a great sense of humour, including their disability. (I’d be a stand-up comedian, but I can’t stand).
8. Wheelchairs are always slow: Some wheelchairs, primarily powered ones, can be pretty fast.
9. They can’t handle responsibilities: Responsibilities are managed by many, regardless of mobility.
10. They don’t engage in self-improvement: Many continually strive for growth.