SECTION 2—SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS
14
Many
activities
require
the
wheelchair
owner
to
reach,
bend
and
transfer
in
and
out
of
the
wheelchair.
These
movements
will
cause
a
change
to
the
normal
balance,
the
center
of
gravity,
and
the
weight
distribution
of
the
wheelchair.
To
determine
and
establish
your
particular
safety
limits,
practice
bending,
reaching
and
transferring
activities
in
several
combinations
in
the
presence
of
a
qualified
healthcare
professional
before
attempting
active
use
of
the
wheelchair.
Proper
positioning
is
essential
for
your
safety.
When
reaching,
leaning,
or
bending
forward,
it
is
important
to
use
the
front
casters
as
a
tool
to
maintain
stability
and
balance.
Reaching, Leaning and Bending Forward
WARNING
DO NOT attempt to reach objects if
you have to move forward in the seat or
pick them up from the floor by reaching
down between your knees.
NOTE:
For
this
procedure,
refer
to
Position
the
front
casters
so
that
they
are
extended
as
far
forward
as
possible
and
engage
wheel
locks.
FIGURE 2.1
Reaching and Leaning Backwards
WARNING
DO NOT lean over the top of the back
upholstery to reach objects behind you,
as this may cause the wheelchair to tip
over.
NOTE:
For
this
procedure,
refer
to
Position
wheelchair
as
close
as
possible
to
the
desired
object.
Point
front
casters
forward
to
create
the
longest
possible
wheelbase.
Reach
back
only
as
far
as
your
arm
will
extend
without
changing
your
sitting
position.
FIGURE 2.2
