r/YouShouldKnow • u/LtSoundwave • Jul 19 '20

Other YSK That many people with a disability consider their aides (wheelchair, etc.) an extension of themselves. You should ask before touching or moving them.

Read this article and was surprised to hear how many people struggle with this. Even if you are trying to help, you should ask first.

www.bbc.com/news/disability-49584591

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u/mssterwind Jul 19 '20

Can confirm as well as I have a friend in a wheelchair. He also told me recently of having to encounter people jumping in to help him if he drops something like his wallet from his lap.

The thought and consideration is there but as he's already in a lower position to grab something from the floor plus added concern of covid spread, you should ask if someone needs your help rather than assuming.

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u/Gathorall Jul 19 '20

People generally tend to help people if they drop stuff though.

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u/gabrrdt Jul 19 '20

When I was in wheelchair, I shouted at a girl who tried to pick my pen (that I dropped) for me. It was instinctive. It wasn't nice from me, but I couldn't help it. She grabbing it for me, sounded like a message "yeah, you are disabled, you are inferior", something like that! But I understand she was trying to help and I don't think bad of people who do that (they are trying to do the right thing).