10 Stereotypes Of People In Wheelchairs | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Health and Wellness

10 Stereotypes That People In Wheelchairs Prove Wrong On A Daily Basis

Stereotypes that need to be broken.

1054
10 Stereotypes That People In Wheelchairs Prove Wrong On A Daily Basis
Olivia Holler

In This Article:

There are so many times where I will encounter people in my chair that will ask my parents or friends, "What's wrong with her?' and assuming that I can not speak or communicate myself yet alone hear. Assuming is probably the worst thing you could do when approaching someone with a wheelchair. It is very much appreciated if you just directly ask the person in the wheelchair the questions. There are so many misconceptions and stereotypes of people in wheelchairs and it needs to be talked about because it is important to me and others.

"You can walk?"

Yes. Yes, I can. It is assumed that everyone in a chair is not able to walk and in some cases, like mine, that is not the case. I use my chair for long distances but am able to walk short distances.

Intellectually disabled

I can't tell you how many times people will ask my mom questions automatically assuming that I am not able to talk for myself or respond because I am in my chair.

Has no friends

I have lots of friends and am able to go out with friends and enjoy life.

Can't have a personal life

So many times I know I have been asked, "You have a boyfriend, really? You can do that?" Yes, I can have a boyfriend. I am human too. My chair doesn't define me. I have been even asked at one point if I could even be intimate with a person. People shouldn't assume that all people with a chair can't have a relationship, why wouldn't we be able to?

Everyone they are with is always their caregiver

No. Not the case. A lot of us are more independent than you think we are.

Inspirations

"You are such an inspiration." OK, no, an inspiration would be doing something amazing like being in the Olympics or something not rolling around in my wheelchair. That is not special.

Incapable of participation in daily activites

Just because I am in a wheelchair doesn't mean I can't go to the mall or go hang out with you.

Burden and an outcast

People assume we can't fit in anywhere except with our own kind.

Freaks

Why does it matter if I am in a wheelchair? I am just living a little differently.

 You can't have good looks or be physically appealing

OK, what? Why is this even a thing. People are beautiful with or without a wheelchair. What does getting around differently make a difference?

The point is, just ask the person directly instead of turning and avoiding the person In the wheelchair. Before you assume, ask. I can't speak for all but I know when people ask me questions it makes me more comfortable in my environment. That's only the beginning of stopping these stereotypes. Will you be the start of that change?

Report this Content
Taylor Swift in orange dress playing a moss-covered piano on stage with bright lights.

A three-and-a-half-hour runtime. Nine Eras. Eleven outfit changes. Three surprise songs. Zero breaks. One unforgettable evening. In the past century, no other performer has put on an electric performance quite like Taylor Swift, surpassing her fans ‘wildest dreams’. It is the reason supporters keep coming back to her shows each year. Days later, I’m still in awe of the spectacle ‘Miss Americana’ puts on every few days in a new city. And, like one of Taylor’s exes, has me smiling as I reminisce about the memories of the night we spent together.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

23638
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
Students walking on a sunny college campus with trees and buildings.

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

9868
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

7154
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments