Wheelchairs As A Source Of Isolation And Frustration

Wheelchairs as a Source of Isolation and Frustration

First, wheelchairs result in frustration. While accessibility is one of the advantages of wheelchairs, there is a challenge where people living with a disability cannot access areas with rugged terrain and some buildings that use staircases, just to mention a few. These frustrations are further fueled by ill-fitting wheelchairs and the need for mechanical and repair services according to Williams et al. (2017). Thus, accessibility has not been fully achieved by wheelchair users. This belief furthers their frustration; some even need more than one wheelchair to access some areas.

Second, wheelchairs are a source of isolation. People with mobility impairments feel isolated even when they have access to wheelchairs. This is attributed to the physical barriers where their wheelchairs cannot take them leading to physical isolation (Williams et al., 2017). In addition, the use of wheelchairs is associated with social stigma. The communities, especially in developing nations, have not addressed disability stigma (Williams et al., 2017). The wheelchair is seen as evidence of disability. Negative attitudes, stereotyping the individuals and spreading misconceptions further the feeling of isolation due to exclusion. The threat of feeling judged and not accepted combined with the lack of access to specific areas, could lead to isolation where the individuals avoid social contact. Thus, despite the advantages, wheelchairs are a source of frustration and isolation.

Williams, E., Hurwitz, E., Obaga, I., Onguti, B., Rivera, A. S., Sy, T. R., Kirby, R. L., Noon, J. H., Tanuku, D., Gichangi, A., & Bazant, E. (2017). Perspectives of basic wheelchair users on improving their access to wheelchair services in Kenya and Philippines: a qualitative study. BMC International Health and Human Rights, 17(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12914-017-0130-6