I just had to write about this new product I found for those of us with disabilities - especially those in wheelchairs. It’s called a walk-in bathtub.

From what I’ve read, they can be a little awkward to get in and out of. But compared to the risk of falling that comes with getting in and out of a regular bathtub, it’s worth a little awkwardness. Here’s a photo.

And best of all it’s a jetted tub to soothe away those aches and pains. The door is even made extra light so that is super easy to close tightly. When it comes to personal care for those in a wheelchair, this may be the ultimate pampering.

So my family (extended family - read crazy uncles and cousins and all) wants to go camping this summer. They’ve made a reservation at a developed campground. They’ve reassured me that it’s wheelchair friendly.

But I just don’t know. Does anyone have experience trying to get around a campsite in a wheelchair? I know I’m probably being a baby here. I’m certainly not the first person to try to figure this out. But I just don’t know if it’s worth the aggravation to haul all my “stuff” out into the wilderness. And then basically be stuck because there’s only so far I can get around.

There is lots and lots of advice floating around cyberspace. We wanted to bring together some of the best tips for those who have friends, colleagues, or neighbors who use a wheelchair. Mainly due to a lack of experience, many people worry about how to act around those with physical disabilities. Certainly the best and most important tip is to simply treat the person as a person. Being in a wheelchair doesn’t define a person. Being in a wheelchair doesn’t remove a person’s need to be respected. So for those who wonder how they should behave, here are the best tips we could collect.

1. Talk at the same level: The proper etiquette to follow is to get down to the same level, as the person you are speaking with. Sit in a chair, on a stool, or crouch down, but do not assume your usual height.

2. Speak directly to the person in the wheelchair rather than to any companion.

3. Don’t make assumptions: Remember most people using wheelchairs are not chronically ill.

4. When first meeting a disabled person, offer to shake hands even if they appear to have limited use of their arms. This action of personal contact breaks the psychological barrier of non-acceptance, and creates a warmer environment for communication.

5. Look at the person when you talk, rather than at the wheelchair.

6. Remember the wheelchair is part of the user’s personal space. Never rest your foot on their wheelchair, or touch their wheelchair unless you have been asked to.

7. Understand the person regards the wheelchair in the same way you think about your car: it is simply a tool for mobility.

8. People using wheelchairs realize children are curious. If a child asks a question you feel is embarrassing, don’t chastise the child. Let the disabled person handle the situation.

9. When talking to a disabled person, try to talk as normally as possible, and do not apologize if you use an expression such as “I must be running along,” or “See you later” if the person as partially sighted. These expressions are part of everyday language, and the apology will probably be more offensive or embarrassing than the expression.

10. Never slap a disabled person on the back or thigh as a goodwill gesture. This can cause the person to loose their balance, or trigger muscle spasms, which can lead to the person falling out of their chair.

By Mobility Alliance Group Staff

Let’s not pull any punches here. Power wheelchairs and scooters are expensive. Some individuals and families are in a financial position to pay for a power wheelchair or scooter out of pocket. But for many (if not most), a purchase this large will require some assistance or financing. The good news is that there are many financial options for those who have limited mobility.

Medicare and Private Insurance

Medicare consists of two parts, part A and part B. Part B requires you to pay an annual premium; however, it is part B that covers the purchase of durable medical equipment, which is the category that power wheelchairs and scooters fall into. If you are covered by Medicare part B and you meet the Medicare guidelines, Medicare will cover 80% of the cost of a power wheelchair or scooter.

The basic Medicare guidelines to qualify:

1. The patient’s condition is such that without the use of a wheelchair the patient would be unable to perform daily activities in their home, and
2. The patient’s condition is such that a wheelchair is medically necessary and the patient is unable to operate a wheelchair manually, and
3. The patient is capable of safely operating the controls for the power wheelchair.

Additionally, if you have secondary private insurance, your private insurance may cover the remaining 20% of the cost.

If this sounds complicated to you, don’t worry. Almost every power wheelchair and scooter provider has consultants who understand all of the guidelines and requirements. They can ask you all the right questions and even handle all the paperwork for you.



For Those without Medicare Coverage

If you aren’t covered by Medicare part B, don’t despair. There are still plenty of options. The best option belongs to those who have private insurance. Many private insurance companies will have a durable medical equipment benefit. If you have private insurance, call your insurance company and find out what benefit is provided. Again, you can rely on the consultants with the power wheelchair providers to help you walk through this process. In most cases, they will be familiar with your insurance provider and will be able to provide guidance to receive your benefits.

If you are without Medicare coverage and private insurance, you still have financing options. Similar to car dealerships, power wheelchair and scooter providers can provide long-term financing options. Some even offer zero-percent loans and automatic payments.

Furthermore, you can also choose to pay by credit card or to seek out your own financial partner. If you have a great relationship with your bank or credit union, you may prefer to secure your own loan and loan terms.

If your limited mobility is due to a work accident, workman’s compensation insurance may also provide coverage. Your case manager and doctor can help you determine if you qualify to receive a power wheelchair or scooter.

The Bottom Line

If limited mobility is interfering with your daily tasks and responsibilities, you have many options to help you handle the finances needed to secure a power wheelchair or scooter. Don’t wait to start reclaiming your freedom. You’ll be surprised how easy it can be.