Manual or electric wheelchair? New or used? How do I deal with stairs? What if I fall out of the chair? Will I be able to have sex? People looking at a future with a wheelchair have dozens of questions. Books can provide medical information, technical expertise and emotional inspiration to those with a multitude of concerns. Whether new to the world of wheelchairs or someone who has been using one for decades, one of these books may provide you with new insight. They can be found in a bookstore or online.
"The Manual Wheelchair Training Guide"
Written by Peter Axelson and others, this book helps people using a manual wheelchair to navigate the various terrains they may come across. Subjects covered include travel, nighttime problems, summoning emergency help and what to do if a fall occurs. The reader is taught how to maneuver when faced with stairs, curbs, escalators and tight doors. Setting up the wheelchair and sitting in it properly are explained for those new to wheelchairs. "The Manual Wheelchair Training Guide" was published in 1998, but most of the subjects covered remain timely today.
"The Powered Wheelchair Training Guide"
"The Powered Wheelchair Training Guide" was written by Peter Axelson and others. Published in 2002, this guide explores the basics of setting up a powered wheelchair and adjusting it for your body and specific needs. The reader is taught how to relieve pressure points and deal with rough terrain, steps and falls. Obscure but important topics such as electromagnetic compatibility and wheel and caster management are included. This book helps you determine how to plan out your route before leaving home and how to work with obstacles that are bound to arise.
"Life on Wheels: The A to Z Guide to Living Fully With Mobility Issues"
Published in 2008, "Life on Wheels: The A to Z Guide to Living Fully With Mobility Issues" was written by Gary Karp, a man who has lived with a spinal cord injury for decades. Aimed at encouraging independence for the person with a mobility issue, this book explores such topics as sexuality, home modifications and wheelchair selection. If you are concerned that a future in a wheelchair holds limitations instead of possibilities, this book may change your thinking.
"Wheelchair Chic"
"Wheelchair Chic" describes the odyssey of a woman thrust into the world of mobility issues. She describes her emotions along the journey as well as the practicalities of getting a job, remaining fashionable and attempting to maintain a "normal life." This book from 2009 by Toni Mamula should serve as inspiration to all who deal with physical challenges in everyday life.
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