Coronavirus: If you're in a wheelchair, here's what you should do.

Jun 14th 2021

Because wheelchairs are handled frequently and in a variety of places, the coronavirus poses specific issues for people with impairments, particularly wheelchair users. We've put up a list of coronavirus precautions for wheelchair users to keep in mind when caring for their mobility equipment and the environment.

These instructions are based on the CDC's recommendations, but you should also obey any rules imposed by the federal, state, or local governments to help keep you safe.

Make sure to look after yourself as well as your equipment. Wash your hands frequently, for at least 20 seconds, especially before and after using cleaning equipment, and whenever you return home after being outside.

If you're becoming a little stir crazy, Life Possible with Karen Roy has some recommendations to help you take care of your mental health while you're waiting.

What to Clean With

Because the coronavirus can survive on hard surfaces for up to 72 hours, cleaning should be done frequently. Surfaces must be cleaned and disinfected to prevent the coronavirus from spreading. Cleanliness transcends all types. You should disinfect places that are regularly touched in addition to any other cleaning you may do to your chair.

Soap and water can be used to clean the surfaces.

Disinfect with EPA-certified wipes or other acceptable store-bought solutions that include at least a 70% alcohol solution. Baby wipes should not be used.

To produce a disinfection solution, fill a spray bottle with one quart of water and four tablespoons of bleach, according to the CDC.

Cleaning Components of your Chair

On a chair, numerous components are frequently touched by users and caretakers.

Joystick
Head controls
Mouth controls
Headrest
Armrests
Side guards
Back of the wheelchair
Push handles

Cleaning Other Assistive Equipment

Other commonly touched equipment and medical supplies, in addition to your wheelchair, should be disinfected. These include:

Any equipment that you handle or put near your mouth
Oxygen tanks
Steering wheel and door buttons on vehicles
Transfer seats
Medication or other items in your home
A backpack or purse that touches your chair

Staying Safe When Going Out

Here are some extra steps to think about if you're leaving the house.

If you have plastic gloves, keep them on when you leave the house.

DO NOT Touch your face with the plastic gloves and always clean anything you have touched after you dispose of the gloves.

If you're on public transportation or a taxi, avoid touching anything metal and stick to your wheelchair.

If you have a Housekeeper,

Those who rely on a caretaker should take the same precautions as you and can assist you if you are unable to clean and disinfect surfaces yourself.

When caretakers are around you, make sure they are wearing gloves or washing their hands.

Request that they clean your wheelchair.

If they're in your house, make sure they're disinfecting the countertop and other surfaces that your (or their) hands come into contact with.

If the person helps you with personal care, be aware that the virus is also present in feces. When being assisted with restroom use, gloves should be worn and then discarded.

If you're catheterizing, make sure you and your caregiver both wash your hands before and after.