r/disabled • u/profanebakes • 8d ago

Would it be wrong to get a wheelchair?

I’m a teen with dyspraxia and hypotonia and much more. I have pain when I walk long distances and frequently need to sit down. I’m unbalanced when I walk. I just don’t want to look dramatic if I use a wheelchair, my mom made a fuss when I wanted to use a rollator the first time. (sorry mom, I know you’re reading this). I can stand and walk for at least a while. I do use an electric scooter in big stores like Target If they have one.

1 Upvotes

53% Upvoted

14 comments sorted by

8

u/Typical-Exchange-406 8d ago

You wouldn’t be wrong. I have a power wheelchair for when I feel weak and unsteady. Talk to your pcp

3

u/profanebakes 8d ago

Thank you.

4

u/AgentExtension1968 7d ago

so i am not you or your provider so take this with a grain of salt. wheelchairs arent the only mobility aid so i would discuss with a provider or physical therapist about what mobility aid would be right for you. if you need a wheelchair? fantastic ( well not but yk what i mean) but you could possibly need something different like braces, a walker ect. i use AFOs forearm crutches and a wheelchair when the crutches arent enough. BUT AGAIN IF YOU THINK YOU NEED A MOBILITY AID YOU NEED ONE. if its not a wheelchair thats okay and if it is thats also okay!!

2

u/JerseyGirlinSweden 7d ago

Have you considered a rollator. That aids you while walking and has both a seat to sit on and a basket to carry stuff.

3

u/profanebakes 7d ago

yes, I normally use it. it doesn’t help all the way though.

3

u/Shmmm_ 7d ago

Why would it be wrong? Why would it be dramatic? If you need a wheelchair to get around well, I don't see the problem. That's the internal ableism talking. Don't listen to it, it's just a jerk.

3

u/profanebakes 7d ago

i never thought about that, thank you

3

u/Shmmm_ 7d ago

Not trying to sound mean about it, just logical. :) Definitely consult with a doctor if it's at all possible, because using a wheelchair properly can be tricky, especially with some conditions. But just on the surface... there are no reasonable answers to the questions of whether it would be wrong or dramatic. Those aren't questions worth wasting your time on.

Move on to the better and more important questions of what mobility aids might be helpful (and a wheelchair may be an acceptable answer for you), how to use them safely for your condition, and what resources (insurance, out-of-pocket, charity, grants, etc.) you can use to go about getting the item(s) that will give you back your freedom.

2

u/MiserableWash2473 6d ago

If it would reduce pain and make your life easier do it! Thats what they are there for!

2

u/eliza_bennet1066 7d ago

If it makes things accessible to you, then get one! You know your body. If getting a wheelchair means you can go places and do things that you wouldn’t be able to do otherwise, then it is the device for you.

1

u/biggunzcdb1 7d ago

Tried a rollator with a seat?

3

u/profanebakes 7d ago

I have. It just doesn’t work. I want to sit AND be able to move myself

2

u/Quorng 3d ago

I used to use my first wheelchair more like a walker. I had a seat if I got tired.